2nd Annual Changing the Face of Addiction Walk
The Center for Prevention and Counseling hosted the 2nd Annual Changing the Face of Addiction walk at the Franklin Fireman’s Pavilion on Saturday, August 6th, 2016. The event was a big success with over 400 people and families participating in a day that was inspired by two local mothers, Mary Burns and Elaine Tizzano, who lost their sons to addiction. The walk highlights awareness about substance use disorders, encourages an understanding of individuals and families living with addiction and helps to promote multiple pathways of recovery.
Before the walk kicked off, the Center for Prevention and Counseling’s Executive Director, Becky Carlson and New Jersey State Senator Steve Oroho, R-24th District spoke of the importance of participating in events that bring awareness to the community about addiction and recovery supports. A supportive Father ‘Bogie’ from Immaculate Conception Church in Franklin began the day with a prayer for everyone affected by addiction and, directly before heading out on the 1 ½ mile walk, Darlene Pallay, of CKO Franklin, got everyone warmed up with a few kickboxing exercises. Thanks to some very considerate family and community members, everyone had the opportunity to enjoy hamburgers and hot dogs donated by Eagle Food Services and breakfast from Bagel Bistro in Andover.
People of all ages were able to mingle while enjoying lunch and music provided by the band, “Inner Vision.” A moving presentation led by Mary and Elaine featured local community members who shared their personal stories of what recovery means to them. This was a highlight of the annual event and many speakers emphasized the significance of publicly sharing their own personal recovery in hopes that others would be encouraged to reach out for help.
The day was a success thanks to all those who participated including 32 sponsors. Our Partners for Change sponsors were the Hardyston/Franklin Municipal Alliance, Summit Oaks Hospital, Sbrocco International, Inc. and Recovery Centers of America. Other sponsors included Lash Spa Studio, First Light Counseling, Lightroom Studios, Mark Lindsay & Son Plumbing and Heating, Inc., New Perspectives Health Care, North Jersey Counseling Associates, LLC, Lakeside Tire and Auto Center, School Safety Solutions, Thor Computing, LLC, The Vernon Coalition, Greco Landscaping, the Sbrocco Family, FBN Builders of NJ and the Bacolas Family, Barbara and Michael Borys, Frank Casella, Don and Nan DeVore, Gary and Katie Ellis, Fanuel Family, Michael and Barbara Flaherty, Jill Helmstetter, Patricia Nicomini, Senator Steve Oroho, United States Gypsum, Steffens and Steffens, St John Business Services and Tom and Vicky Turner.
There were many selfless, behind the scenes volunteers involved in the planning and organizing of the walk and we sincerely appreciate their hard work and dedication to improving the climate for addiction, treatment and recovery. This year’s walk exceeded a monetary goal of $20,000 in donations. All money raised will go directly to help individuals and families in Sussex County in need of substance use disorder treatments.