Celebrating Recovery Month
Recovery Month is an annual observance that takes place during the month of September.
The Recovery Month observance highlights the societal benefits of substance abuse treatment, lauds the contributions of treatment providers, and promotes the message that recovery from substance abuse, in all its forms, is possible. The observance also encourages citizens to take action in helping to expand and improve the ability of effective substance abuse treatment for those in need. Each year a new theme or emphasis is elected for the observance.
Recovery Month provides a platform to celebrate people in recovery and those who served them. Each September, thousands of treatment programs around the country celebrate their successes and share them with their neighbors, friends, and colleagues in an effort to educate the public about treatment, how it works, for whom, and why. Substance abuse treatment providers have made significant accomplishments, having transformed the lives of untold thousands of Americans. These successes often go unnoticed by the broader population; therefore, Recovery Month provides a vehicle to celebrate these successes.
Recovery Month also serves to educate the public on substance abuse as a national health crisis, that addiction is treatable, and recovery is possible.
Recovery Month highlights the benefits of treatment for not only the affected individual, but for their family, friends, workplace, and society as a whole. Educating the public reduces the stigma associated with addiction and treatment. Accurate knowledge of the addiction helps people to understand the importance of supporting treatment programs, those who work within the treatment field, and those in need of treatment.
What To Expect for Hands Across The Bridge
Bridge Linking Ceremony- Participants join hands across a bridge or symbolic location to show unity in recovery and honor lives lost to addiction.
Speakers- We will have Guest Speakers share personal stories and messages of hope.
Celebration of Recovery- Recovery milestones are recognized, often with music, positive encouragement, and cake.
Resource Tables- Local treatment centers, support organizations, and community services provide information, resources, and wellness tools.
Kids’ Activities- Family-friendly options like games, face painting or bounce houses to keep children engaged.
Music & Entertainment- Music played by a DJ to keep the energy upbeat and celebratory throughout the event, and sometimes live music!
Raffle- Raffle tickets are available for purchase, with chances to win recovery-related items or prizes donated by local businesses.
Food & Refreshments- Free meals or snacks are provided to create a welcoming, family-friendly environment.
And so much more!
Here are a few other things that happen on this special day…
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Recovery Countdown – A powerful recognition of recovery milestones, from the first 24 hours to decades of sobriety, celebrating every step forward.
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Moment of Silence – Time set aside to honor and remember loved ones lost to addiction, while also renewing our commitment to hope and healing.
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Community Connection – An opportunity to meet others walking the recovery journey, build new friendships, and strengthen local support networks.
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Family & Fun – The event is designed for everyone—individuals in recovery, families, friends, and community members—making it a true celebration of togetherness.
Hands Across the Bridge is more than just an event—it’s a movement of hope, healing, and unity that reminds us recovery is possible, and together we are stronger.
Interested in Sponsoring or Participating?
If you’d like to become a sponsor for this event or future events—or if your organization is interested in hosting a resource table—please reach out to one of our board members. We’d love to connect with you!
