National Recovery Month began in St. Clair County with an overdose awareness event hosted Monday by the Michigan Department of Corrections.
Organizers say the goal was to connect residents with treatment and recovery resources while honoring those whose lives have been affected by substance use. Organizations from across the county shared information on available services, while people in recovery shared their personal stories. The event concluded with an evening remembrance honoring those lost to overdose.
Among the participating organizations was St. Clair County Community Mental Health, where Recovery Court staff explained how the county’s treatment court combines probation with counseling, peer recovery coaching and other services designed to support long-term recovery. The program also connects participants with housing, employment, education and medication-assisted treatment when appropriate.
Blue Water Recovery and Outreach Center Executive Director Patrick Patterson said the event gave people an opportunity to learn about local resources while remembering loved ones lost to addiction.
Recovery Month activities continue throughout September. Community Mental Health is hosting its annual Recovery Summit, a free virtual educational series on substance use prevention, treatment, recovery and family support. Patterson also encouraged residents to attend Recovery Fest on Saturday, Sept. 12 at Pine Grove Park.
