The spirit of community resilience shone brightly in Weston, West Virginia, as nearly 100 individuals converged for the highly anticipated second annual Recovery Walk and Wellness Festival, a poignant demonstration of collective support for addiction recovery and holistic well-being.
Participants began their meaningful journey at Robert L. Bland Middle School, embarking on a path that culminated at the Lewis County Treatment Center in Garton Plaza on Route 33. This organized walk symbolized a shared commitment to fostering an environment of understanding and healing, highlighting the vital role of local initiatives in addressing substance abuse awareness and community health.
Samantha Ribiro Natos, a treatment coordinator for the West Virginia 26th Judicial Circuit Community Corrections program in Lewis County, expressed profound emotion witnessing the widespread participation. Her chills underscored the deep impact such events have, especially with the recent expansion of recovery centers in both Weston and Upshur County, operating under the Lewis Upshur Community Corrections.
Ribiro Natos further elaborated on the strategic decision to brand the recovery centers distinctly from the Day Report Center. This approach aims to dismantle potential stigmas associated with the judicial system, thereby encouraging a broader spectrum of individuals, including those not directly linked to the courts, to seek and engage with crucial mental health support and recovery initiatives.
The invitation extends to anyone interested in learning about recovery, those currently on their recovery journey, and family members seeking guidance. Ribiro Natos hopes the Recovery Center becomes a beacon for education and support, challenging societal perceptions and affirming that success in recovery is attainable for everyone, a unique endeavor particularly for employees working with non-adjudicated clients.
Guiding the procession of walkers was Andrew Pinkney, an advanced alcohol and drug counselor at the Recovery Center, whose personal connection to recovery amplifies his dedication. Joined by his wife and daughter, proudly displaying a “Get Funky for Recovery” sign, Pinkney articulated the far-reaching effects of addiction, emphasizing that recovery for one person creates a powerful ripple effect that strengthens the entire community.
Beyond the walk, the festival buzzed with vibrant energy, offering a plethora of engaging activities for all ages. Children delighted in face painting and playful frolics, while the dunking pool provided a refreshing source of entertainment, with Pinkney himself willingly serving as the main target, much to the glee of the younger attendees, further cementing the event’s focus on family and community wellness.
Pinkney’s commitment to giving back, stemming from his 11 years in recovery, was evident in the week-long series of free community events leading up to the festival, including movie nights, yoga sessions, and trivia contests. This comprehensive approach underscores a holistic vision for community well-being, reinforcing the ongoing efforts to provide accessible and engaging support for addiction support.
