Recovery Is Possible: The Inspiring Story of ‘Let’s Get Real’ in Vermilion

When Kim Eberle founded “Let’s Get Real” in 2013, she had one heartfelt goal: to make a difference in the lives of those struggling with addiction. Vermilion, with its small-town charm and tight-knit community, became the starting point for this meaningful organization. Today, “Let’s Get Real” isn’t just a name; it’s a promise of hope and support for those in need.

Addiction can feel like a lonely journey, but organizations like “Let’s Get Real” remind us that no one has to face it alone. Born from a deep understanding of the challenges addiction brings, the nonprofit began after two community forums highlighted the urgent need for local resources. Kim took this as a call to action, and with determination and compassion, she opened the doors of “Let’s Get Real.”

A Heartfelt Mission

The mission of “Let’s Get Real” is simple yet powerful: to provide education, resources, and emotional support to those on the path from addiction to recovery. For Kim, this mission is deeply personal. With her own experiences shaping her understanding, she built the organization on empathy and a genuine desire to help.

In Vermilion, “Let’s Get Real” offers services tailored to meet the needs of its residents. From connecting individuals with treatment programs to providing support groups for families, the organization ensures that no one has to navigate this challenging journey on their own.

A Safe Space for Support

“Let’s Get Real” has become a sanctuary for Vermilion residents seeking understanding and help. The organization hosts several support groups, including a Family Support Group for loved ones affected by addiction. These groups create a safe space to share experiences, gain insights, and find comfort in the company of others who truly understand.

Peer Recovery Support is another cornerstone of their work. Certified Peer Recovery Supporters (CPRS) bring a unique perspective, having walked the path of recovery themselves. In Vermilion, CPRSs meet people where they are, whether that’s at a police station, hospital, or directly in the community.

“It takes one to know one,” Kim often says. This approach fosters trust and builds a connection that can be the first step toward a brighter future.

Meeting Vermilion’s Needs

Vermilion is a community that cares deeply about its residents, but like all towns, it faces challenges. Addiction doesn’t discriminate, and its effects touch every corner of society. In smaller communities, the search for help can feel overwhelming. That’s where “Let’s Get Real” steps in, bridging the gap with compassion and expertise.

Through partnerships with local organizations and facilities, “Let’s Get Real” has established itself as a trusted resource. Vermilion residents can access life-saving tools, like Narcan training and opioid rescue kits, directly from the organization. These resources are readily available at the office and through an outdoor Opioid Rescue Kit Box for after-hours emergencies.

The organization’s Warm Hand Off Project is another vital service. CPRSs respond promptly to calls from local hospitals and police departments, ensuring individuals receive immediate support and guidance toward detox, treatment, or recovery housing.

Building Bridges Through Community

“Let’s Get Real” thrives thanks to the support of the Vermilion community. Partnerships with local organizations, like Mercy Regional Medical Center and the Wellington Police Department, make it possible to reach those who need help the most. Vermilion’s residents and businesses have played a crucial role in the organization’s growth and success.

In addition to emergency services, “Let’s Get Real” offers practical assistance, such as hygiene bags for those in need. Small gestures like these can make a world of difference. Weekly support meetings, like the Life Recovery Bible Study and the S.M.A.R.T Recovery Meeting, provide Vermilion residents with spaces to find encouragement and connection.

Kim emphasizes that addiction is a family disease. Its effects ripple through relationships and the broader community. By offering family-focused programs and children’s support groups, “Let’s Get Real” ensures that recovery becomes a journey for everyone involved.

Looking to the Future

While “Let’s Get Real” has expanded beyond Vermilion to other counties, the heart of the organization remains firmly rooted in its hometown. Kim dreams of growing its reach within Vermilion, providing even more services and breaking down barriers to recovery.

Future plans include expanding community education about addiction, increasing outreach efforts, and continuing to dismantle the stigma that prevents people from seeking help. “Recovery is possible,” Kim says. “We’re here to show people they’re not alone, and there is always hope.”

How Vermilion Can Help

The success of “Let’s Get Real” depends on the kindness and involvement of the community. Vermilion residents can support the organization in many meaningful ways:

• Donate: Financial contributions help provide essential services and are tax-deductible.
• Volunteer: Whether you’re interested in becoming a peer supporter or lending a hand at events, your time can make a significant impact.
• Spread the Word: Sharing information about “Let’s Get Real” can connect more people with the help they need.

For Kim Eberle and the team at “Let’s Get Real,” the work is a labor of love. With the continued support of Vermilion, they’re confident in their ability to keep changing lives—one person, one family, and one recovery story at a time.

To learn more or get involved, visit their office, call their hotline, or check out their website. Together, Vermilion can remain a community where hope and healing thrive.