Anthony Tyre had a busy summer. He started a Ph.D. program for addiction and substance misuse treatment at East Carolina University and launched his own treatment and mental health services clinic, all while serving as the owner and director of the Stepping Stones Childcare & Learning Center in Aurora. His most recent venture, Clear Point Family Services, opened its doors to the Beaufort County community on Sept. 1.
How is Beaufort County approaching substance misuse work?
AT: “Beaufort County is driven by the “why” of many community members’ experiences. So many of them work to bring a new light to substance misuse and mental illness. I was pleasantly surprised by the support I received from the community. Stigma is one of the greatest barriers to treatment, and the Beaufort County community is really learning to listen and educate in response [to it].”
How did you get involved in the work going on in Beaufort County and what are the next steps?
AT: “I wanted to be the voice of the underprivileged, the underserved. I wanted to give back to the place where I was raised. By getting feedback from the community, we can continue to help the people in need by meeting them where they are. There’s room for growth and change in Beaufort County, but we’re headed in the right direction.”
How has this involvement shaped you as a community leader?
AT: “I’m still getting used to it. I’m just another community member and I’m continuing to build rapport with my peers. I want to give an understanding of what my community goes through. It’s a privilege to continue to get to know the people that I see regularly–it’s such a joy. My favorite part of the work is the drive and the people. I’ve traveled all around the world, and I still want to be in Beaufort County.”