Event to celebrate success of recovering addicts

WAPPAPELLO LAKE, Mo. -- The fourth annual Recovery Fest will celebrate the successes of those who have found a path that works for them in overcoming drug and alcohol addiction, but also provide information on resources for those who are still struggling toward that goal.

The free event will be from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at Redman Creek Recreation Area at Wappapello Lake. It will include live music, personal stories from those who are in recovery and operate recovery centers, activities for children, door prizes and food.

"We really want to concentrate on the positive part of recovery, instead of the negative part of addiction, but at the same time offer resources for recovery," said organizer Austin Montague. "When you see people who are happy about recovery, it gives you a glimmer of hope."

Speaking from experience, 10 years ago this month Montague found his own path to recovery from alcohol and cocaine addiction.

He believes in speaking openly about addiction and recovery.

"We have to break the stigma, and get out there and say something about it," Montague said. "I think if you see people who are comfortable with talking about it, open, who have their life on track, it gives you hope. We're the faces and voices of addiction."

Recovery Fest is designed as well to offer support to family members, who also feel the stigma surrounding addiction, Montague said.

Recovery is a long road, he said.

"But the rewards of that new life are amazing," Montague said.

The keynote speaker for this event will be Joseph Hahne, director of Archangel Outreach Ministries in Springfield, Mo. Other speakers are Sandy Mick, director of Recycling Grace Women's Ministries of Poplar Bluff, Mo.; Angela Bonine, assistant project director of Missouri Recovery Network, Jefferson City, Mo.; and Mark Lane of Fellowship of Acceptance in Poplar Bluff.

Everything at the event is free. About $1,000 in door prizes will be given away. Funding for the event comes from donations and grants.

Pertinent address:

Wappapello Lake, MO