We asked for donations for the Spring into Sobriety event for our housing residents and their families, and you responded with your support! The event took place at the Lighthouse, West Sound Treatment Center’s recovery house for men and their children. The day couldn’t have been more perfect…
Working Together
Bright June sunshine suffused the afternoon with just the right amount of light and heat. Lighthouse residents had mowed a wide area around the house, having first fought back yellow Scottish broom to the borders of the yard, where it still stood head height and more. Strawberries, veggies, and flowers flourished in raised beds. Folding tables lined up in the shade of some trees, and chairs clustered here and there in the yard.
In this idyllic setting, several small children played outdoor games, while groups of adults gathered in the shade, around the fire pit, or at the grills. They laughed and chatted, sharing stories and getting to know one another.
Several WSTC staff attended, and they participated in setting up, cooking, serving, and fellowship. Over the course of the afternoon, people consumed ribs, chicken, potato salad, and other picnic barbecue foods. The conversations were lively and friendly.
Developing Peer Support
Most of the people at the event are only a few months into recovery. These residents understand that they need peer support to strengthen their recovery journey, but they may not realize yet just how important that support will be in the coming months and years. This event and others like it are where they learn how much they can gain by supporting each other. Because the recovery community is relatively small, residents are likely to see one another at peer support groups and recovery celebration weekends for years or even decades to come.
Strengthening Foundations
As people left, there were calls of, “Text me,” and “I’ll see you at the next meeting.” Whether they knew it or not, attendees left with more than they had when they arrived. The foundations of their support were strengthened by this event – by the connections they made with each other. Statistics say that relapse becomes less and less likely as these connections are strengthened.
Thank you for being a part of this event! Your financial support becomes their recovery success, and for that we are so grateful.
