PARKERSBURG - A community event featuring speakers and informational booths will be conducted from 2-5 p.m. Sept. 15 at West Virginia University at Parkersburg in connection with National Health Recovery Month.
This will be the 23rd year for the observance of recovery month which is sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The purpose of the observance is to raise awareness of prevention, treatment and recovery services.
The event will feature a "Ride for Recovery" that begins in Charleston at the capitol, proceeds to Clarksburg then to WVU-P as part of Go Celebrate Recovery: A Community Event. The event will conclude in Ripley at the Bo-Mar Club. The Ride for Recovery is sponsored by the West Virginia Association of Alcoholism & Drug Abuse Counselors, Inc.
Parkersburg Mayor Bob Newell and Williamstown Mayor Jean Ford will read proclamations declaring September National Recovery Month to raise awareness about mental health issues and substance use disorder support services in Wood County and throughout West Virginia.
"Mental health substance use disorders are a critical challenge that West Virginians must address immediately. To draw attention to the issue, Go Celebrate Recovery: A Community event is free and open to the public," said Liz Ford, marketing coordinator, Westbook Health Services.
There will be a disc jockey, popcorn, arts and crafts activities and prizes. Informational booths will be set up and manned by participating organizations such as WVU-P, Mid-Ohio Valley Fellowship Home, Courage to Change Ministries, SW Resources, Bo-Mar, Westbrook Health Services and other local organizations supporting prevention, treatment and recovery. Food will be for sale and meals will be provided for Ride for Recovery participants.
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For More Info
Go to the Recovery Month website http://www.recoverymonth.gov for additional information on the initiative.
Russ Taylor will be the keynote speaker. Taylor is the former director of HealthWays Inc. Dr. Lee Jones Miracles Happen Center. Taylor has been involved in the field of addiction for more than 26 years. He will speak on treatment and recovery support services.
"My hope is that through these activities, people will recognize that while the road to recovery may be difficult, the benefits of preventing and overcoming mental and/or substance use disorders are significant and valuable," said Charles Hasse, clinical director Westbrook Health Services Inc. "As you know, mental and/or substance use disorders not only affect those who are suffering, but also their families, friends, and the larger community. This underscores how crucial it is to provide access to prevention, treatment, and recovery support services."
