Coastal Horizons recently announced that Ryan Estes, chief operations officer, has been awarded the Advocacy All Star Award by the Addiction Professionals of North Carolina (APNC). 

"This recognition highlights Ryan’s outstanding leadership and commitment to eliminating barriers to resources, expanding access to mental health and substance use disorder (SUD) services and championing policies that support North Carolina’s most vulnerable populations," according to a news release.

The Advocacy All Star Award is presented to individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication to creating systemic change and increasing access to essential care, the release stated.

“Ryan has earned this recognition through his strategic advocacy and relentless pursuit of equitable access to care,” stated Margaret Weller-Stargell, president and CEO of Coastal Horizons, in the release. “We are incredibly proud of Ryan and the significant impact he has made on the fields of mental health and substance use. This award is a testament to his dedication and leadership.”