Region: Southeastern NC
Shirley was introduced to alcohol at a young age because her cousins were drinking, and she thought it was cool. After losing her mother at age 9, she used alcohol to cope with the pain. She didn’t have anyone to talk to about the pain she was feeling. Because of her personal experience, Shirley is passionate about ensuring others have the support they need. Shirley has been in recovery for more than 20 years and wants to create a safe space for kids to be able to talk to their parents about alcohol. She started the Tia Hart Recovery Program to help our next generation. As a Talk it Out NC Ambassador, Shirley enjoys working with churches and schools to help make the dangers of underage drinking an ongoing conversation topic.