A powerful day of unity, resilience, and voices of hope in downtown Portland.

​In this episode of the Real Recovery Podcast, Julie and Peter take listeners inside the Oregon Recovers Walk for Recovery at Pioneer Courthouse Square in Portland. As both sponsors and participants, they captured the energy, connection, and heartfelt stories that made this event unforgettable.
​A Community Gathering for Recovery
Julie and Peter reflect on the growth of the Oregon Recovers Walk, noting the crowds, the surge of participating organizations, and the joy of seeing friends of the podcast showing up in support. From kids proudly wearing their Real Recovery Podcast shirts to people sharing how much the show means to them, the day was filled with meaningful moments of encouragement.
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​Bo Brinson, Executive Director of Oregon Recovers, set the tone, emphasizing collaboration and the importance of bringing people together to face the addiction crisis. His words captured the mission of the walk: to build community power, promote pride in recovery, and remind everyone that recovery is possible.
​Voices from the Recovery Community
The Walk featured a lineup of voices that highlighted the depth and diversity of recovery stories:
  • Eric Allen (EA): Serving as the event’s MC, Eric brought energy, humor, and heartfelt shout-outs, reminding everyone of the power of community in recovery.
  • Izzy Alvarado: From GTD – Go the Distance, Izzy encouraged unity and breaking the stigma, highlighting the importance of showing up for one another.
  • Colette: Representing the Real Recovery Podcast board, Colette shared her story and offered encouragement to those gathered.
  • Sarah from GTD: As volunteer coordinator, Sarah underscored the urgent need for volunteers and invited listeners to connect with GTD to support its mission.
  • Austin Keever: Now an addictions counselor with Fora Health, Austin shared his inspiring path from incarceration to recovery, education, and service.
  • Isaac and Georgie: A powerful mother-son duo reflecting on the impact of addiction within their family and the strength found in recovery events.
  • Rudy: From Volunteers of America’s men’s inpatient program, Rudy described the importance of structure, housing, and support in sustaining recovery.
  • Terry from The Peer Company: Formerly known as MHAAO, Terry spoke about the value of “experts by experience” and reminded everyone that recovery happens, hope happens.
​The Oregon Recovers Walk was more than an event—it was a vivid demonstration of community, resilience, and the collective strength that drives recovery forward. Julie and Peter captured the heart of the day, bringing listeners stories of hope, unity, and determination.
“Recovery happens, hope happens, and we get to show people that there is hope.”
​– Terry, The Peer Company 
​Listen to this inspiring episode now: https://mdcr1.com/82
Read more about the stories we share: https://mdcr1.com/82b
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