To Keep it You Have to Give it Away (Reel 3, 1970s)

Reel three from a film explores rehabilitation programs for drug addicts, focusing on two key approaches: spiritual guidance through the Assembly of God and a more holistic, community-based model called Cinanon. The Assembly of God’s Pittsburgh Challenge facility offers a live-in program emphasizing Bible study, chapel, and guidance, with residents sharing testimonies of finding hope and recovery through faith as a last resort. Cinanon, founded by Chuck Dietrich, operates as a commune and rehabilitation center, emphasizing radical lifestyle changes, personal responsibility, and a unique program called the “Synanon game” designed to foster open communication and self-examination. The film highlights the successes of both programs in helping individuals overcome addiction and rebuild their lives, while also touching on the unconventional nature of Cinanon and the community’s efforts to sustain itself through donations and various enterprises, including an integrated school system.

Keywords: drug addiction, rehabilitation, spiritual guidance, faith-based, community living, lifestyle change, self-help, personal responsibility, recovery, addiction treatment, halfway house, commune, Synanon, Assembly of God, testimony