Recovery Happens 2020!
Due to COVID-19, all community groups and Recovery Happens events are being provided virtually.
Every September since 2014, Voices of Recovery and San Mateo County Behavioral Health have sponsored National Recovery Month in San Mateo County where hundreds gather together to increase awareness and understanding of mental health and substance use disorders and celebrate the people who recover.
Activities:
Join us virtually for exciting fun and education.
All activities can be accessed via Zoom
Please register in advance (click on red links)
4th Annual Candlelight Vigil
August 28, 2020 - 6:00 PM
The Candlelight Vigil is our Kickoff event for Recovery Happens. Please bring a candle or download a virtual candle and Join us!
Candles light our way and illuminate the space above us. It is our way to dispel darkness and proclaim life; to proclaim hope, families all over the world will dispel the darkness of addiction and proclaim our hope in a candle lighting ceremony during this event.
Join us as we light candles to:
• Honor our loved ones in the bondage of active addiction
• Give our gratitude for those who have found their way out of the darkness of addiction.
• Remember and honor the lives lost to addiction.
• Raise Awareness and Promote Recovery
Recovery Resource Fair & Recovery Art Show
September 1 - 30th, 2020
Throughout the month of September we are virtually showcasing the many community resources and the creative talent in the Recovery community by hosting our Resource Fair and Art Show here online at VORSMC website.
Please contact us for submission.
For artwork submission contact Veronica:
For resource fair submission contact Greg:
Philomena Walk of HOPE
September 15, 2020 - 9:00 AM
The Philomena Walk of hope is in honor of an incredible woman. Philomena, whom during her lifetime worked tirelessly in support of the Recovery community. She was tragically taken from us, the victim of domestic violence. The walk usually follows the route from the San Mateo Bridge to the Courthouse. This year the walk is virtual! You can walk with us from the comfort of your home.
Speakers:
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Scott Gilman, Director of Behavioral Health and Recovery Services,
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Clara Boyden, First Deputy Director for BHRS
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Judge Livermore, retired Judge of the Superior Court of California
Recovery Happens Speakers and Proclamation
September 15th - 10 AM
Come watch the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors officially declare September “Recovery Happens Month”.
ZOOM ID TBD
Black Lives Matter
September 17, 2020 - 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Moderator: Pam Ward
Black Lives Matter and Black Recovery Matters. In the fight for equality and end to racism, we must listen to those who have lived experience. In recovery, we rely on the support of our peers, and this means that their struggles are our struggles. With this in mind, we host this event with special speakers to share on the topic of black recovery.
Showing the S-Word Film
September 22, 2020 - 6:00 - 8:00 PM
In honor of Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month which is also in September, we will address this important issue and give hope to survivors as well as those impacted by suicide. We are showing a screening of 'The S Word'. There will be time for questions and answers at the screening.
The Impact of Criminal Justice on Personal Recovery
September 24, 2020 - 6:00 PM
Moderator: Lee Harris
People in Recovery come from all walks of life. This year we have chosen to spotlight those in Recovery who have come into contact with or run afoul of the criminal justice system. To highlight this topic we have assembled a special panel of guest speakers and moderators for discussion. All are welcome.
Recovery Comedy Show
Featuring Mark Lundholm
September 29, 2020 - 6:00 - 8:00 PM
MC: Brendan Winans
Come join us "One Laugh Time"
You are sure to laugh, come enjoy yourself.
Join the Recovery Happens Planning Committee
The planning committee is open to the public. Recovery Happens 2020 planning committee meets every Wednesday from 12:00 -1:00 pm.







National Recovery Month is supported and celebrated in San Mateo County and promotes the importance of prevention, treatment, and recovery. Recovery Month continues to thrive because of the support and participation of individuals, communities, and organizations. In this spirit, this year’s theme is:
“Join the Voices for Recovery: Celebrating Connections"