“My name is Bill Mitchell. I am a recovering alcoholic since June 20, 1990.”

Bill, who is the owner of Richard’s, recently shared his personal story at Shatterproof’s inaugural benefit, A Chef’s Tasting at Richards of Greenwich. He understands the importance of changing the conversation about addiction and says, “What Shatterproof stands for is what I try and advocate: That we must end the stigma of addiction and promote recovery!” 

More than 300 Shatterproof supporters came together for the event to show their dedication to ending the devastation addiction causes families. This cause is near and dear to many in the local community, from Bill, to event co-chairs Megan Flanigan and Joanie Reznik.

The event was an enormous success raising over $750,000, which will go a long way in supporting Shatterproof’s advocacy efforts, providing trusted, evidence-based resources, and ending the stigma of addiction.

Event co-chair Joanie Reznik, who is determined to advance Shatterproof’s mission, explains, “My decision to become an advocate and have an event to raise funds for addiction and raise awareness about treatment and prevention, seemed the only path to take with my co-chair Megan Flanigan by my side. This was just the beginning of sharing potentially life-saving information with our family, friends, and neighbors. With the incredible people involved, who have such a passion for our mission, we knew only good was going to come out of taking this on and we were right.”

Shatterproof would like to give a heartfelt thanks to event co-chairs, Megan Flanigan and Joanie Reznik, our many sponsors, the participating restaurants and chefs, auction item donors, the Mitchell family for hosting at their beautiful store, and our committee for putting together such a special evening. Shatterproof founder and CEO Gary Mendell said, “Shatterproof has accomplished so much in a few short years, saving countless lives. But we can’t do it alone. It’s thanks to the support of our generous donors that we can change laws, support families, and end the stigma of addiction. We would not be able to have such an impact without you.  I am incredibly grateful.”

It was a night to remember and did so much to bring addiction and those who suffer from this horrible disease out of the darkness and into the light. We are incredibly grateful for the success of this event and are already excited about next year!