Mineola High School hosted former professional basketball-player Chris Herren to speak about his struggles with drug and alcohol abuse. Herren played for the Denver Nuggets and Boston Celtics from 1999-2001. After being released by the Celtics, Herren went to play professionally for teams in Italy, Poland, Turkey, China, and Iran.Herren formed The Herren Project in 2011 to increase education and public awareness on the dangers of substance abuse, to assist those who struggle and to inspire others to either get help or remain drug free. He held two workshops, one for the entire study body during the day and another for parents and interested community members at night.
Herren’s presentation reinforced the importance of positive self-esteem and self-worth as the key to remaining anti-destructive.
“Be a pro at being you,” was his message to students and to parents, and he emphasized the importance of an open line of communication.
