Good News Tucson - A Family Values Publication

Recovery Walks…Will You?

On the morning of September 8th at Reid Park, 500 or more people are expected to participate in the 2nd annual “Recovery Walks” event. YOU can be one of these people.

The Recovery Walks 2007 event is part of the 18th annual observance of National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month. According to event organizer and Director of H.O.P.E. Recovery, Inc., Pete Moore, “The purpose of the event is to draw attention to and to educate the community regarding the issues surrounding drug and alcohol addictions. It is also a time to come together and celebrate people who are in successful recovery and recognize those organizations, agencies, ministries, and individuals who help provide much needed treatment programs in our community.”

Individuals and teams of individuals are being recruited to walk in the event. Business sponsorship is also being solicited. Pledge and sponsorship forms and additional information are available on the Gospel Rescue Mission web site www.gospelrescuemission.com or you may contact Pete Moore at 360-7270.

A suggested donation of $20 minimum is asked to participate in the walk. For that minimum donation you will receive a t-shirt and free food. Plus there will be drawing prizes, guest speakers and lots of fellowship. Moore added, “This year the proceeds from the event will be split. H.O.P.E. Recovery will receive 40% and 60% can go to the favorite charity of each walker. So, people can raise money for their own non-profit organization, church youth group, or ministry, while also helping raise funds for the H.O.P.E. Recovery program. Each walker will simply designate the 501(c)3 non-profit organization of their choice on their pledge form. It’s a win-win for all.”

Teams of walkers are encouraged to participate. Bring a banner with your group’s name or logo and walk as a team in support of H.O.P.E. Recovery and your group. The more money you raise, the more you help those in recovery and your own organization. Last year’s inaugural walk had about 350 walkers and raised over $8,000.

Registration will take place starting at 8:00 AM at Ramada number 10. Various non-profit organizations and ministries will have educational display tables set up with resources for those seeking help with addictions. There will be guest speakers and testimonies from people in recovery. At 10:00 the 1.5 mile walk (not race) around Reid Park takes place. After the walk, there will be a free hot dog lunch sponsored by Gospel Rescue Mission.

An estimated 26 % of people in Tucson and Southern Arizona are affected by substance use disorders. While treatment is effective, many are hesitant to seek it due to the stigma and discrimination that often surround people in recovery. Moore stated, “Stigma and discrimination can detract from the character or reputation of people with these disorders. For many people, stigma can be a mark of disgrace and a barrier to receiving treatment.” In 2004, 21.6 percent of the 1.2 million people who felt they needed treatment, but did not receive it, indicated it was because of reasons related to stigma.

H.O.P.E Recovery, Inc., a non-profit faith based organization made up of family, friends and allies in recovery; striving to help shape public policy, reduce the stigma surrounding addiction and recovery, and actively remove the stigma and barriers to recovery.

Roy E. Tullgren III serves as Director for Gospel Rescue Mission.
Find out how you can get involved and make a difference by calling: (520) 740-1501.