On Saturday, May 17, 2025, teen advocates from Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Salt Lake premiered their original documentary on substance misuse at the Spence Eccles Boys & Girls Club in Salt Lake City. The premiere was part of a free, public event featuring a community resource fair with local prevention and treatment partners, family-friendly activities, and a Q&A session with the teen filmmakers.

Created in collaboration with filmmaker Carlos Orengo, the documentary explores substance misuse and the recovery process through the lens of lived experience. Club youth interviewed individuals at various stages of their recovery journeys to uncover what helps—and what hinders—people working to reclaim their lives. From stories of isolation and family cycles of addiction to moments of rediscovery and hope, the film offers a message that recovery is possible, and that no one should have to walk that road alone.

Among those featured in the documentary is Utah State Senator Dr. Jen Plumb, who spoke about her role in bringing Naloxone to the state and how the loss of her brother to an overdose shaped her mission. In attendance at the premiere, Senator Plumb stood alongside the teens in encouraging a culture of compassion and community action.

During the Q&A, the teens reflected on how the process shaped them as leaders and human beings. “We didn’t expect people to be so willing to share their stories,” one teen shared. “It showed us how important it is to listen and to show that we care.” The teens learned that one of the biggest barriers to recovery isn’t just access to resources—it’s having a community that truly supports the journey.

This project is a powerful example of how Boys & Girls Club youth take on serious issues impacting their communities. Through this experience, the teen advocates not only raised awareness—they raised their own voices, learned to lead with empathy, and took active steps to create change.

This documentary was made possible in part by funding from the Salt Lake County Health Department.

Learn more about resources available at:
Odyssey House
The Other Side Academy
University of Utah Health
Fit to Recover
Utah Naloxone
Salt Lake County Health Department