President Obama proclaimed September 2011 as National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, stating, “Recovering from addiction to alcohol and other drugs takes strength, faith, and commitment. As a Nation, we must strive to promote second chances and recognize each individual’s ability to overcome adversity.” There are millions of Americans whose lives have been transformed through recovery, and Recovery Month provides a vehicle to celebrate these accomplishments.

This year’s theme, “Join the Voices for Recovery:  Recovery Benefits Everyone,” showcases how public awareness can increase access to treatment and community-based recovery support.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is offering a variety of materials to help local organizations and leaders reach out to their communities throughout September to raise awareness of substance abuse issues. To view a listing of community events for the month, visit http://www.recoverymonth.gov/Get-Involved.aspx.  SAMHSA also offers a number of FREE materials available for use in your community.

You may access and order these and other materials by visiting the SAMHSA website at http://www.recoverymonth.gov/Recovery-Month-Kit.aspx.