RRP Extra 43.1: Celebrating Unity and Recovery at the Oregon Recovers Awards Luncheon

A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the People and Stories that Inspire Recovery

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In this special extra episode of the Real Recovery Podcast, Peter and Julie take us to the Oregon Recovers "We Do Recover" Awards Luncheon, a vibrant celebration of resilience, leadership, and hope in the recovery community. This event marks a pivotal transition as Mike Marshall, the outgoing Executive Director, passes the torch to Bo Brinson, who brings fresh energy and vision to Oregon Recovers.

Mike Marshall

Bo Brinson

​Honoring Leadership and Community
Mike Marshall, the founding Executive Director of Oregon Recovers, reflects on his legacy, sharing powerful stories of advocacy and progress. "This organization was built to elevate unheard voices in the fight against addiction," he shares.

Bo Brinson, the newly appointed Executive Director, outlines his bold vision for a collaborative approach to recovery. "Recovery requires unity and breaking down silos. Together, we can transform Oregon into a recovery haven," says Bo.

"Recovery is for everyone—no matter your background, you can thrive beyond addiction."
—Bo Brinson

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​Spotlighting Tools and Resources
The Recovery Network of Oregon app was highlighted as a game-changer for connecting individuals to essential resources like detox centers, recovery housing, and food assistance. This innovative tool is freely available and aims to increase access to services statewide.

Special Honors and Key Figures
The event celebrated standout contributors to Oregon's recovery community:

• Katie Johnson received the Tawana Sanchez Recovery Leadership Award for her exceptional dedication to leadership and advocacy in the recovery space.
• Nicole Clark was honored with the Eric Martin Community Engagement Award, recognizing her outstanding commitment to fostering community connections in recovery.
• Alex Green, a Portland native and former Green Bay Packers running back, was presented with an Oregon Recovers Award, acknowledging his inspiring recovery journey and his work to uplift others.

Aimee Kotek Wilson

Notable Guest Speaker's
Oregon’s First Lady, Aimee Kotek Wilson, delivered a powerful speech highlighting the state’s commitment to addressing addiction and supporting recovery. Her presence underscored the importance of community and leadership in driving meaningful change.

Tony Vezina, Executive Director of 4D Recovery, shared powerful insights on the importance of community support and increasing access to recovery services. His dedication to empowering young people and fostering collaboration continues to inspire.

Tony Vezina

Poison Waters

Community Highlights
Portland icon Poison Waters emceed the event with humor and heart, bridging diverse communities and advocating for inclusivity in recovery spaces. Hayden, a young artist, captivated attendees with a heartfelt acapella performance, while Andrea from Fora Health shared their plans to expand recovery support through housing initiatives.

Robert & Solara

Solara Salazar and Robert Sanders stopped by and shared their insights, adding depth to the event with personal stories and reflections on the recovery journey. Additionally, GTD Go the Distance was in attendance, contributing their voice to the collective effort of fostering recovery across Oregon.

Links to Websites Discussed

• Oregon Recovers
• Recovery Network of Oregon
• Poison Waters
• Fora Health
• 4D Recovery​
• Cielo Treatment Center
• GTD Go the Distance
• Real Recovery Podcast
  

​The Oregon Recovers "We Do Recover" Awards Luncheon exemplified the strength and unity of Oregon's recovery community. From celebrating leadership transitions to recognizing remarkable individuals like Katie Johnson, Nicole Clark, and Alex Green, this event was a powerful reminder that recovery is not only possible but a journey shared by a supportive community.

#RealRecoveryPodcast #OregonRecovers #AddictionRecovery #HopeAndHealing #RecoveryCommunity
@OregonRecovers, @PoisonWaters, @ForaHealth, @GTDGoTheDistance

Show Notes:

Title: RRP Extra 43.1: Celebrating Unity and Recovery at the Oregon Recovers Awards Luncheon
Presenters: Peter and Julie
Length: Approximately 1 hour
Links to Websites:

• Oregon Recovers
• Recovery Network of Oregon
• Poison Waters
• Fora Health
• Listen to the Episode
• Read the Blog

Key Points:

• [00:01:00] Introduction to the episode and Oregon Recovers Awards Luncheon, featuring hosts Peter and Julie.
• [00:03:00] Insight from outgoing Executive Director Mike Marshall on the legacy of Oregon Recovers.
• [00:05:00] Introduction to Bo Brinson, the new Executive Director, and his vision for inclusivity and recovery access.
• [00:08:00] Overview of the Recovery Network of Oregon app and its innovative features.
• [00:12:00] Community stories and insights from Poison Waters, the dynamic emcee for the luncheon.
• [00:15:00] Recognition of key award recipients, including Alex Green and Nicole Clark, for their contributions to recovery.
• [00:20:00] Reflections from guests like Solara Salazar and Robert Sanders on the impact of Oregon Recovers.
• [00:28:00] Performance by Hayden, a young artist, with a moving acapella song.
• [00:32:00] Closing remarks by Peter and Julie, highlighting the event's inspiring takeaways and a preview of exciting upcoming episodes.

Summary:
In this special episode, Peter and Julie take listeners to the Oregon Recovers "We Do Recover" Awards Luncheon. The episode highlights impactful stories from community leaders, including reflections from Mike Marshall on his tenure, and an introduction to Bo Brinson's ambitious plans as the new Executive Director. Poison Waters brings her signature charm to the event, and notable speakers like Alex Green share inspiring recovery journeys. The Recovery Network of Oregon app is spotlighted as a crucial resource, and heartfelt performances and awards make this an episode filled with hope, unity, and celebration. Learn more from Andrea about how Fora Health is expanding its care through housing initiatives for those in recovery.
Conclusion:
This episode encapsulates the power of recovery and the importance of community. From innovative tools to personal triumphs, the luncheon showcases the collective strength of the recovery movement in Oregon.
Hashtags: #RealRecoveryPodcast #OregonRecovers #WeDoRecover #AddictionRecovery #HopeAndHealing #RecoveryCommunity #RecoveryNetworkOregon #PoisonWaters #ForaHealth