Warsaw Community Workshop Aims to Reduce Stigma Around Substance Abuse

K-CODE and LITE Recovery Hub organize public event to address challenges faced by those struggling with addiction and mental health issues.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 8:23pm

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A minimalist neon outline of a human figure reaching out, with glowing lines in shades of pink, purple, and teal against a dark blue background, conceptually representing outreach and support for those facing personal struggles.A community workshop in Warsaw aims to break down stigmas and foster more compassionate support for those facing substance abuse, mental health, and other life challenges.Warsaw Today

K-CODE and LITE Recovery Hub, along with other local organizations, are hosting a community workshop in Warsaw, Indiana called 'Breaking Down the Walls of Stigma.' The event on April 27th will feature a documentary, panel discussion, and outreach with groups focused on supporting people facing life's biggest challenges, including substance abuse, mental health issues, and post-incarceration struggles.

Why it matters

The workshop aims to raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding substance abuse, mental health, and other social issues in the community. Organizers believe improved collaboration, especially with law enforcement, is key to providing more compassionate support for those in need rather than just arresting them.

The details

The free public event will take place from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Zimmer Biomet Center Lake Pavilion. Participating organizations include the Warsaw CARES Unit, Allendale Treatment Center, Fort Wayne Recovery, Serenity House, and Fellowship Missions. Law enforcement will also have a role in the meeting. Organizers hope the workshop will help the community better understand the circumstances of those facing challenges and inspire more people to get involved in supporting local resources.

  • The community workshop will be held on April 27, 2026.

The players

K-CODE

Formally known as the Kosciusko Coalition on Drug Education, a group that investigates problems associated with drug, alcohol and other addictive behaviors in the county and meets monthly to work on reducing substance abuse.

LITE Recovery Hub

A local organization focused on supporting people suffering from life's biggest challenges, co-hosting the 'Breaking Down the Walls of Stigma' workshop.

Tammy Cotton

Founder and executive director of LITE Recovery Hub.

Heidi Blake

Coordinator of K-CODE.

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What they’re saying

“Even if it's not affecting you within your own sphere of influence, you will come across someone who is unhoused or someone who is struggling with mental health somewhere and some way, and so why not learn and educate yourself on the resources that are out in our community.”

— Tammy Cotton, Founder and Executive Director, LITE Recovery Hub

“We really want to dismantle stigma surrounding those who have experienced incarceration, substance use, even some mental health (issues), and showcase the collaborative work being done in our community.”

— Tammy Cotton, Founder and Executive Director, LITE Recovery Hub

“We're not asking really anybody to do anything. Our call to action is for people to make themselves aware of the challenges people are facing, and maybe not just so much.”

— Tammy Cotton, Founder and Executive Director, LITE Recovery Hub

What’s next

Organizers hope the workshop will lead to more collaboration between law enforcement, social service providers, and the community to offer compassionate support and resources for those struggling with substance abuse, mental health issues, and other challenges.

The takeaway

This event highlights the ongoing efforts in Warsaw to reduce the stigma surrounding substance abuse, mental health, and other social issues, and foster a more empathetic and collaborative approach to supporting vulnerable members of the community.