BUTLER — September is National Recovery Month.

With the U.S. Department of Health and Human Resources estimating 2.1 million Americans battled an opioid use disorder in 2016, the national opioid epidemic seems as bad as ever.

But there's hope. And Butler Art Center is working with BC3 to promote that through the Hope is Dope series.

The center will be hosting BC3's “Stories of Hope” Sept. 30, an event where recovering addicts are welcomed to share their tales in an open-mic setting.

“There's a stigma out (there),” said Stephen Haley, Butler Art Center gallery director. “I have not met a nicer group of people.”

BC3 Coordinator of Community Leadership Initiatives Tracy Hack is the events coordinator for “Stories of Hope” and the Hope is Dope series.

The series follows applied quantum philosopher and professional counselor Steve Treu's approach to addiction recovery, which takes steps by reclaiming “natural endorphins.”

“It's a strong part of opioid recovery,” Hack said.

Hope is Dope events take place the last Monday of the month and feature different stress-reducing, happiness-boosting activities.

The event is 6 to 8 p.m. Sept. 30 at Butler Art Center. Find Hope is Dope on Instagram and Facebook for more information.

This is a preview of a full article that will appear in Sunday's Butler Eagle. Subscribe online or in print to read more about the event.