The Madison County commissioners recognize September as National Recovery Month: (front row, from left) Greta Mayer of the Mental Health & Recovery Board; Jean Perry, executive director of the London Recovery Project (LRP); Patty Abbott, Sharon Moltz, Matt Miller, LRP members; Dale McNeal, LRP president; (back row) commissioners David Dhume, Paul Gross, Mark Forrest, and LRP member Kevin Scarberry.
(Posted Sept. 23, 2016)
By Kristy Zurbrick, Madison Editor
In recognition of September as National Recovery Month, the Madison County commissioners thanked the London Recovery Project for their local efforts.
Commissioner Paul Gross recounted the story of a Recovery Project member he met last year who told him, “It’s nice to know that when your back is against the wall, you can count on your local government and community to support you.” That man has since sought out training and secured a good job.
Talking last week to Recovery Project organizers, Gross said, “Your group was in large part responsible for that success. We are proud of what you do.”
The London Recovery Project was formed in September 2014. Members are individuals in long-term recovery from substance use disorders. Their mission is to serve as a resource bank for referrals to everything from 12-step programs and treatment to housing, clothing, food, transportation, and employment preparation.
The all-volunteer group mans a drop-in center from 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at the London Community Center, 20 S. Walnut St. The drop-in center is open to individuals in recovery and their family members, as well as individuals affected by mental health issues.
“We offer a safe, non-threatening environment where individuals or families can seek whatever kind of support they need,” said Dale McNeal, president.
In addition to referral information, the drop-in center features an activities room with a ping-pong table, air hockey table, cornhole set, books, games, and space to sit and share fellowship. Meetings also take place at the center.
The Recovery Project recently secured a grant through the Mental Health & Recovery Board of Clark, Greene & Madison Counties to offer art classes. “Start Art” provides a creative way for individuals to augment their recovery, said Jean Perry, Recovery Project executive director.
“Through my years of recovery, I have found great value and help through creating art… It’s very soothing and healing,” said Perry, who will lead the classes.
The first class is set for 2 to 4 p.m. Oct. 13 at the drop-in center. Those interested in participating in the free class are asked to RSVP by Oct. 10 by calling Perry at (614) 779-3714. A second class is scheduled for Oct. 27.
The organization also secured grant money to help offset the cost of providing transportation for individuals from West Central Community Correctional Facility in Marysville. These individuals can get a ride home or to Madison County Mental Health, if so directed, upon their release. Recovery Project volunteers also can transport these individuals to job inter-views, doctor appointments, and housing opportunities, just as they do for others in recovery.
“We’ll introduce them to the recovery community and to volunteer opportuni-ties,” Perry said. “Our goal is to keep them in the recovery frame of mind, to keep them clean and free of drugs and alcohol, and surround them with health.”
The London Recovery Project is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. For more information, check out their Facebook page or call Jean Perry at (614) 779-3714.
