Washington, D.C. (April 24, 2025) – The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) invites the public to a powerful and inspiring virtual event honoring Marty Mann, one of the most influential figures in the history of recovery advocacy.
Date: Monday, May 5, 2025 – FREE EVENT!
Time:
1:00–2:30 PM Eastern Time (ET)
12:00–1:30 PM Central Time (CT)
11:00 AM–12:30 PM Mountain Time (MT)
10:00–11:30 AM Pacific Time (PT)
Hosted by: First Call, an NCADD Affiliate
In partnership with: NCADD National
Join via Zoom: https://firstcallkc-org.zoom.us/j/89288664550#success
Meeting ID: 892 8866 4550
Honoring a Visionary Leader
This illustrated history presentation celebrates Marty Mann — the first woman to achieve long-term sobriety in Alcoholics Anonymous and the trailblazing founder of NCADD, established in 1944. At a time when open conversations about substance use and mental health were virtually nonexistent, Mann emerged as a bold and unrelenting voice for change. She envisioned a world where substance use was treated as a public health concern rather than a moral failing and dedicated her life to making that vision a reality.
Under her leadership, NCADD became the first national organization of its kind. Marty Mann helped shape the field of recovery through tireless public education efforts and national media campaigns, which brought substance use issues into the public eye. She played a critical role in influencing federal policy, including testifying before Congress to advocate for increased government funding for treatment and prevention. As a strategist and community builder, she also laid the foundation for NCADD’s national presence by establishing a far-reaching network of affiliates to ensure that recovery resources were available in local communities across the country. Through training programs and professional development, she also helped legitimize and shape the early workforce of recovery professionals, advocating for ethical, science-informed care.
Today, her work remains deeply relevant as communities across the nation navigate ongoing substance use and mental health challenges.
“As today’s professionals and community leaders face rising challenges in recovery and mental health, Marty Mann’s courage and clarity remain a guiding light,” said Denise L. Kolivoski, MBA, NCADD National Executive Director. “She opened the doors to national dialogue and recovery support before the world was ready. Now, more than ever, her story matters. Her work reminds us that real change begins with brave voices and a shared commitment to compassion and science.”
This free virtual event is open to all. Professionals, students, advocates, and community members are encouraged to join this engaging session and reflect on the enduring power of one woman’s vision to transform how we understand and respond to substance use.