Hundreds Turn Out for Holy Family University’s 2nd Annual Collegiate Recovery Event Program and Resource Fair on May 4

Hundreds of community members turned out for discussions and resources centered on addiction resources and recovery at Holy Family University’s 2nd Annual Collegiate Recovery Program event on May 4 on the University’s Philadelphia campus.

“We know that substance use disorder and mental health challenges affect families and communities nationwide,” said University President Anne Prisco in opening the event. “Each statistic reflects a personal story of struggle and resilience. Families face emotional turmoil, often feeling helpless and heartbroken. And yet, despite these challenges there is hope. This event marks on of those bright lights of promise.”

“It is vital for me to go up to Harrisburg and bring back the necessary resources, tools, and legislation so that recovery from drug and alcohol addiction stays on the forefront,” said State Senator Jimmy Dillon who showed up in support of the event.  “We are taking an intergovernmental approach in making sure that we are giving everyone the treatment and rehabilitative services that they need and deserve.” 

Holy Family University and Beck Institute faculty member Patrick McElwaine, Psy.D., LPC, delivered the keynote address “Dear Recovery, You Saved My Life.” Attendees also had an opportunity to hear a panel discussion, moderated by Nicholas Emeigh, Associate Director of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Bucks County, that featured the insights of a panel of five addiction specialists including Christina Loftus, Dr. Pat Mullen, Joe Owens, Katie Kennedy, and Mark Ryan.

A Recovery Resource Fair, staged by 45 area organizations dedicated to addiction and mental health counseling, offered valuable information and resources on site.