Codie Callies

Codie Callies is a keynote speaker and addiction awareness advocate whose work is rooted in personal experience. After losing his nephew to addiction, Callies dedicated himself to raising awareness about the impact of substance use disorders on individuals, families, and communities. His transition from grieving family member to public advocate has resonated with audiences nationwide.

Callies has participated in the Recovery Oriented Systems of Care Council, an Illinois initiative focused on developing recovery-focused care systems at the local level. Through this involvement, he has discussed the effects of addiction on his family, using his nephew’s story to offer support and hope to others facing similar challenges. His work with the council highlights his commitment to building community infrastructure that supports long-term recovery.

As a family resource developer and mental health professional at Bridgeway, Callies combines lived experience with professional expertise in his advocacy. He addresses topics such as addiction and recovery, mental health, wellness, social activism, and resilience. In his presentations, Callies shares personal stories and practical resources, including mental health statistics, helplines, and information about community alliances, to assist those in crisis.

Callies aims to reduce the stigma surrounding addiction and promote access to recovery resources. His perspective is informed by direct experience and a commitment to supporting individuals and families affected by addiction. Organizations, schools, and communities seeking to address addiction and mental health issues benefit from Callies’ informed and personal approach.