If you’ve been paying attention to the news lately, there’s been a lot of stories out there about the addiction crisis in New Hampshire, talking about lack of treatment options, overdoses and arrests.
But there’s another side of the addiction narrative and we’re talking about recovery. Not every addiction story leads to death or jail. Many people do come out on the other side and get back to living a healthy life.
And the STARS Program (Scholarship Trust for Addiction Recovery Services) is hosting an event at White Park on Saturday for anyone who wants to come.
It’s called Restore Your Spirit Celebration and Vigil, and it’s all about stopping the silence about addiction and recovery, and becoming part of the conversation.
“The point is to show society that people can and do recover,” said Donna Marston, president of STARS.
The event will go from 4 to 8 p.m. and like we said before, it’s free. There will be resource tables for treatment and after care options, as well as organizations who look to help friends and family of those going through addiction.
“We all need to seek our own recovery,” Marston said.
In addition to the resource tables available, there will be lots of entertainment and other fun stuff to do. This is a celebration you know.
“This is just a day to meet people. For people who are in recovery, their families and friends. Really anyone who wants to come,” Marston said.
DJ/Rapper Orlino Rocks, who is based out of Florida, will be MCing the event as well as performing.
“He raps about the 12 steps and recovery,” Marston said.
There will be other musical performances, along with poetry and advocates talking about prevention and treatment.
Add in some dancing, food and yoga, and this is an event that is looked at as the building block for a yearly gathering.
There will also be star pins available for purchase for $10 that will benefit the STARS program.
The program was started by two Massachusetts women who had dealt with addiction in their families, and last August Marston took over and brought it to New Hampshire.
“They wanted to do something to help people,” Marston said.
STARS raises money to award scholarships to those in recovery, who need things like after care, a driver’s license or first month’s rent.
“We need to raise money so we can help people,” Marston said. “And we’re always looking for donations.”
This event is replacing the one that’s been put on by Hope for NH Recovery for the last few years that was moved to Manchester.
So if you know or are someone who’s struggling with addiction, going through treatment or need a listening ear, you should probably make your way to White Park on Saturday – and join the conversation.
“It’s a day where people can go and learn about recovery and treatment,” Marston said. “But also meet new people and have a good time.”
