Recovery Walk draws hundreds

SANDUSKY — More than 400 people attended the Sandusky Artisans Recovery Community Center's annual Recovery Walk, which took place Saturday morning in downtown Sandusky. People walked from Artisans' home on East Market Street to Jackson Street Pier where more than two dozen vendors greeted them. Attendees could also visit representatives from various organizations, which gave out goodie bags, in addition to taking pictures in a photo booth, playing yard games, dancing to music and more. Each year, the Recovery Walk represents one of the area's largest public outreach initiatives to raise awareness for a nationwide drug epidemic hitting home. It also aims to provide local treatment solutions. "This is a great way for our community to be able to see people in recovery and people that support recovery and get the community's support," said Mary Supina, the co-founder of Sandusky Artisans. Her comments circle back to this year's theme of "recover out loud." "We want the community to know that recovery is alive and well, and there are so many community resources available to assist someone on their journey," Supina said. With community, "This is possible," said Mary, who founded Artisans with her husband, Joey, in 1996. Both are in long-term recovery. The nonprofit Artisans — at the forefront of providing outlets for community members coping with addiction and mental health issues — sponsors meetings and offers guidance along with other resources to provide support for those suffering. Most, if not all, of Artisans' services are free. Those affiliated with the Artisans also educate the public about what recovery means. Mary stressed how the Recovery Walk represents a good opportunity for people to learn. "The Recovery Walk is important because getting and staying clean and sober and managing one's mental health challenge can be daunting and overwhelming not only to the person but to their families as well," she said. "We all come together to celebrate those who have transformed their lives and can be a beacon for others who are searching or struggling with their recovery," she added. "It is a way to connect to be visible and celebrate the transformation that has taken place in lives because of recovery." The Recovery Walk also offers hope to people, showing them, "There are many pathways and resources for those in recovery from substance use disorder and mental health in our community," Mary said. "Sandusky Artisans Recovery Community Center believes it is important for community members to be aware of all the wonderful resources available in our community as well as see that there are positive, powerful examples of recovery in our community and they should be celebrated," Mary said. People can visit sanduskyartisansrecovery.com for more information.