Shining Light on Early Intervention and Recovery Support

October is recognized nationally as Substance Use Disorder Prevention Awareness Month. While Rise Up Recovery does not provide direct prevention programming, we play an essential role in early intervention and ongoing support through the work of peer recovery specialists and our recovery community organization.

For many, peer recovery support is the bridge between struggle and stability. Recovery community organizations like Rise Up Recovery are often the first safe space where individuals and families can reach out without fear of judgment. In those moments, a conversation with a peer recovery specialist can spark hope, open the door to treatment, or help connect someone to critical resources.

⸻

Why Early Intervention Matters

Research continues to show that:

• 9 out of 10 adults with a substance use disorder began using before age 18 (National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse).

• Recovery support works best when people are connected early. The sooner an individual is linked to peer support or community resources, the greater their chances of avoiding crisis.

• Peer connections reduce stigma. Talking to someone with lived experience can break down walls of shame and fear, making it easier to ask for help.

• Community support prevents isolation. Recovery thrives when people are engaged with others who believe in their ability to heal.

  
  

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11

At Rise Up Recovery, we see this every day. A timely phone call, a cup of coffee shared with a peer, or a ride to a recovery meeting can make the difference between relapse and a renewed sense of hope.

⸻

Banquet 2025 – Let Your Light Shine

We’re excited to announce our upcoming annual banquet, with the theme: “Let Your Light Shine.” This year’s focus will highlight the importance of investing in young people and expanding our peer recovery support in ways that meet them earlier in their journey.

🟣 Banquet Highlights:

• Stories of transformation that show how recovery support changes lives

• A vision for engaging youth and young adults with meaningful peer connection

• A celebration of the impact Rise Up Recovery is making in Hastings and beyond

As Matthew 5:14,16 reminds us:

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden… let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

This banquet will be a chance to honor the light already shining in our community and to inspire greater investment in ensuring no young person or family has to walk through the darkness alone.

⸻

Walking Together Into the Future

Substance use disorder prevention awareness reminds us that the earlier we intervene, the brighter the outcomes can be. While prevention begins before substance use ever starts, peer recovery support is where hope often takes root. Together, we are creating a future where fewer lives are lost, more lives are transformed, and every person has the chance to rise up into freedom.

With gratitude and hope,

The Rise Up Recovery Team

Redeeming Lives; Restoring Dignity.