The upcoming Americas Lodging Investment Summit (ALIS) is set to shine a spotlight on addiction treatment within the hospitality industry. From January 28 to 30, Los Angeles will welcome leaders in hospitality and advocacy as Shatterproof, a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming the healthcare landscape for individuals grappling with addiction, hosts its eighth annual Hospitality Heroes Reception. Aimed at improving treatment accessibility while combating addiction stigma, Shatterproof’s mission aligns closely with the challenges faced by the hospitality workforce.
On January 29, the Hospitality Heroes Reception will commemorate Amanda Hite, the insightful leader at STR, a prominent hotel data and analytics firm. In a significant acknowledgement of the hospitality sector’s commitment to addiction awareness, the event will also celebrate other notable companies that have actively supported Shatterproof’s initiatives. These recognitions serve not only to honor individual achievements but also to galvanize the collective efforts toward enhancing addiction treatment and support systems within the industry.
Among the highlights of the ALIS programming is a panel dedicated to the pressing issue of addiction, featuring some of the most influential voices in hospitality. Heavyweights such as Gary Mendell, Shatterproof’s founder, and executives from major hotel chains like Wyndham, Hyatt, and IHG will contribute to what promises to be an enlightening discussion. These conversations aim to dissect the ramifications of substance use on both staff and guests, with a focus on fostering a more informed and supportive environment in hotels and resorts.
Since its inception in 2013, Shatterproof has made remarkable strides, raising over $5 million through the Hospitality Heroes Reception alone. Their endeavors focus not only on enhancing the quality of treatment available but also on educational outreach related to prevention and recovery. The collaboration between Shatterproof and Northstar Travel Group adds a significant dimension to these efforts, expanding the reach of addiction education across their extensive network of brands and events. Their proactive approach addresses the long-standing challenges posed by substance use disorder, particularly in an industry that often faces these issues head-on.
Bob Sullivan, Northstar’s chief commercial officer, articulates a commitment to confronting substance use disorders, acknowledging their profound effect on both the hospitality workforce and the broader community. By leveraging partnerships with organizations like Shatterproof, Northstar aims to mobilize resources, raise awareness, and provide indispensable support. As the momentum builds towards ALIS, the collective determination to confront these challenges reaffirms the importance of dialogue, education, and proactive measures in fostering a healthier, more responsive hospitality industry.
This year’s ALIS events, including the upcoming Hotel Week, stand as a testament to the industry’s dedication to improvement, both for its workforce and society at large. The event not only celebrates achievements but also serves as a vital platform for advocating change, ensuring that the conversation around addiction continues to flourish within the realm of hospitality.