As we celebrate National Recovery Month, I’m reminded of the extraordinary power that emerges when business leaders, elected officials, nonprofit executives, and community advocates unite behind a shared mission. This month’s theme—Recovery is REAL (Restoring Every Aspect of Life)—perfectly captures what our coalition represents.
Ashley’s journey at Advent Health, featured in this newsletter, demonstrates exactly what we’ve long advocated: workplaces can be sources of strength, support, and transformation. Her story proves that when businesses embrace their role in supporting recovery, extraordinary healing happens.
SAMHSA’s Recovery Month framework—Health, Home, Community, and Purpose—isn’t just for September; it’s the foundation of much of what we do year-round. Whether we’re advocating for employee assistance programs, supporting recovery housing, building inclusive workplace communities, or connecting individuals to care, we’re strengthening these essential pillars.
Our upcoming Recovery Night at the Rays on September 17th embodies the “Community” pillar in action. With an estimated 900,000 adults in the Tampa Bay region considering themselves in recovery, this event reminds us that recovery isn’t rare—it’s real, happening, and deserves celebration.
I encourage every coalition member to engage with SAMHSA’s toolkit highlighted in this newsletter. Take those 30 minutes each week to share recovery messaging, support local initiatives, or create workforce opportunities. These aren’t just charitable activities—they’re strategic investments in our community’s resilience.
Recovery thrives where support is strong, and our coalition creates exactly those environments. Together, we don’t just support individual journeys; we build a community where recovery is REAL for everyone.
In partnership and purpose,
Jennifer Webb