Walkers of all ages gathered at Meadow Breeze Park in Washington Township on Oct. 3 to help raise funds for Parent to Parent Addiction Services’ mobile van and services.

The 3rd Annual Warren County Memorial and Walk for Recovery included a walk around Meadow Breeze Park, guest speakers, and overall support for those fighting addiction and for those who have lost loved ones or friends to addiction. 

Parent to Parent also invited participants to bring photos of loved ones lost to addiction to add to a memorial tent.  A special dedication to those lives lost also included the unveiling by the artist Chelsey Lindaberry of a 4×5 ft painting of a Tree of Hope. The artist had cardinals and butterflies to pin to the oak, which later will be replaced with the names of the loved ones submitted. 

“It was an amazing turnout and outpouring of love and support, and caring of one another,” said Parent to Parent co-directors Debi Natale and Helen Carey, both of whom co-founded the Warren County-based program. “We want to thank everyone for coming out and being a part of the walk and for donating to this much needed cause. The funds raised is going toward an essential piece of our overall vision.”

The Walk raised over $4,600. Proceeds specifically benefitted the C.L.E.A.R./Hope Mobile Recovery Van, which will be used to travel throughout Warren County on Community Law Enforcement Addiction Recovery Days. There, Parent to Parent Addiction Services Recovery coaches will be available to assist individuals who are suffering from substance abuse and their loved ones. Narcan kits and training will also be available, as well as information on other county resources and the option of going straight to treatment that day. 

The van will also go to community events throughout the county to offer education and advocacy. All services are free.

Parent to Parent also hosts a family support group on the 1st Tuesday of the month and a grief support group for those who lost a loved one to suicide or substance use the second Tuesday of the month.