The annual “Recovery Out Loud” event, a vital initiative coinciding with National Recovery Month, is slated to return to Great Bend on September 5th and 6th, offering a powerful platform for individuals to share their journeys toward healing and personal growth. This two-day gathering, now expanded for the first time, provides a unique opportunity for community members to engage with the transformative power of shared experience in addiction recovery.

Amanda Grandclair, a returning participant, epitomizes the profound impact of this event. Initially apprehensive about publicly recounting her past struggles with drug and alcohol use, Grandclair found immense liberation and confidence in speaking out. Her personal narratives resonate deeply, illustrating how confronting vulnerability can be a cornerstone of the recovery process.

Grandclair’s initial discomfort quickly evolved into eagerness, underscoring the cathartic nature of sharing one’s story. She passionately advocates for others to step forward and offer their approximately three-minute testimonials, emphasizing the rewarding experience of trying something new and bravely embracing one’s personal truth.

This year’s “Recovery Out Loud” festivities will span two prominent locations: Jack Kilby Square and Veterans Park in Great Bend. The choice of these central venues underscores the community-wide embrace of the initiative, designed to foster an environment of acceptance and collective support for those navigating mental wellness challenges and addiction recovery.

Amy Ferguson, program coordinator for Rise Up Central Kansas, highlights the event’s core mission: empowering participants to advance their recovery by connecting with neighbors through shared personal narratives. This communal aspect is crucial for building a resilient support network and reducing the stigma often associated with addiction.

Furthermore, Ferguson extends a warm invitation to the broader community, strongly encouraging attendance to witness these inspiring personal narratives. The event serves not only as a beacon for those in recovery but also as an educational opportunity for everyone to better understand and support the diverse paths to healing and mental wellness.

Individuals interested in contributing their voice and sharing their experiences are encouraged to sign up promptly. For more detailed information or to schedule a testimonial, prospective speakers can contact Amy Ferguson directly via telephone at 620-639-0125 or by email at riseupcentralks@gmail.com, ensuring their story can be part of this impactful community support effort.