Who We Are

Save the Michaels is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness of the dangers of prescription drug abuse within our community and across the nation. Formed at the kitchen table of co-founders Avi and Julie Israel following the death of their son Michael, Save the Michaels began as a grassroots campaign to draw attention to the burgeoning opiate epidemic in America. Facing a life-long struggle with Crohn’s Disease, Michael David Israel subsequently found himself facing a new battle, an overwhelming one against his addiction to the prescription pain medication he was provided by his physicians. Within the midst of these struggles, Michael and his family frantically sought solutions for this life-shattering difficulty from the medical community as a whole. Catastrophically, Michael succumbed to suicide before a solution could be found.

After Michael’s passing, the Israels vowed they would continue their quest for solutions, and have dedicated their lives to creating change in the name of their son. With the support of their friends, as well as other families who faced similar trauma, the Israels created Save the Michaels of the World, Inc. What began as the struggle of one family’s child, quickly manifested into a movement.

How Do We Do It?

Through partnership with local outreach programs such as Kids Escaping Drugs, and medical providers such as Horizon Health Care, Save the Michaels services schools, businesses and organizations with educational presentations which provide critical information about the dangers and impacts of drug abuse. Offered free of charge, these engaging workshops are an opportunity to raise awareness and develop prevention strategies among students and community members. Save the Michaels is also recognized community-wide for their support of anti-drug legislation, and common sense prescription protocol. 

How Can You Find Us?

Check us out on the web, on Facebook or at our blog for more information!