Walk for Recovery Unites Community Organizations in an Effort to Raise Awareness of Benefits of Recovery

Portland, ME – September is National Recovery Month – a time to promote the societal benefits of prevention and treatment for mental and substance use disorders, celebrate people in recovery, laud the contributions of treatment and service providers, and promote the message that recovery in all its forms is possible, according to SAMHSA. Catholic Charities Counseling Services, Milestone Foundation, Day One, Portland Recovery Community Center, York County Shelter Programs, Inc., Crossroads Maine, and Health Care for the Homeless have partnered to organize the fourth annual Walk for Recovery on Saturday, September 21st in Monument Square. Registration will start at 8:30 am the day of the event, but participants are encouraged to register online in advance at http://www.walkforrecoveryme.org.

This event draws attention to an issue for which more than 11,000 Mainers sought treatment for in 2012, with just over half also suffering from a mental health disorder according to the state’s 2013 epidemiological profile on substance abuse trends. While these rates have declined, the battle is far from won as it is believed many more are affected but do not seek treatment.

While the road to recovery can be difficult, the benefits of preventing and overcoming substance abuse disorders are significant and valuable,” says Carolee Lindsey, Director of Substance Abuse and Co-Occurring Services at Catholic Charities Counseling Services in Portland and St. Francis Recovery Center in Auburn (programs of Catholic Charities Maine). “Substance abuse not only affects those who are suffering, but also their families, friends and the community as a whole. This just underscores how crucial it is to provide access to prevention, treatment and recovery support services,” she adds.

The Walk is a free, family-friendly event with a suggested donation of $10 per participant. Free event t-shirts will be given to the first 150 people to register online prior to the event. Registration begins at 8:30 am with the 1.5 mile walk kicking off at 10am in Monument Square. The route will meander through the city ending back in the Square for a rally and music by local acoustic rock group, Sober Not Silent. Free refreshments will be provided along with an art display and contest.

It is important that people with substance use and mental health disorders seek treatment so their families and communities can prosper. For many people, one of the greatest barriers to receiving treatment is the stigma. Please join this year’s Walk for Recovery to provide support and community to all persons affected by addictions and mental health disorders and celebrate the success of recovery. All proceeds raised from pledges will benefit persons in recovery who are seeking assistance in becoming productive and positive members of our community.

To register and donate, or for more information, visit http://www.walkforrecoveryme.org or call Catholic Charities Counseling Services at 775-5671.

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