4 minute read
Recovery Alive Gala raises $128K to fuel community work
from March 2024
by Johnston Now
By Jamie Strickland
SELMA — Through shared stories, uplifting presentations and a community bonded by empathy, the “Night of Hope” offered solace and inspiration, illuminating the way forward for individuals and families affected by substance use disorder.
The 3rd Annual Recovery Alive Gala held Feb. 10 at The Farm at 42 transcended mere philanthropy; it served as a profound testament to the resilience and strength of individuals navigating the path to recovery.
“At the gala tonight, we felt the power of change through local churches. In the journey of recovery, we see that being together is crucial. God wants people like us to reach out and help others like us, sparking a wave of positive change for everyone,” said Tisha Temple, chief resource officer of Recovery Alive, Inc.
“We are overjoyed to share that, with your help, we raised over $128,000 through a combination of ticket sales, sponsorship
packages, general donations and auction items. This remarkable achievement will undoubtedly fuel our efforts in transforming communities through local churches,” she said.
The night was highlighted with heartfelt testimonials from program founder and CEO, John Eklund as well as current recovery home residents. Recovery Alive National Online Director Karen Reese was given the organization’s Leader of the Year Award.
“It’s amazing to see the number of people here, not just to support Recovery Alive, but also to support what God is doing through us,” said Casey Temple, Director of Operations. “There is no better feeling than knowing the impact that Recovery Alive is having in our community and communities nationwide.”
Major League baseball star Darryl Strawberry was the keynote speaker of the event and described his descent from eight-time all-star player into addiction, disease and personal turmoil. He gave an inspiring account of turning his life around and gave the credit to God.
“My destiny was not major league baseball, that was just the platform. God was doing for me what I could not do for myself. God has used my mess for his message,” he said.
He and his wife, Tracy, operate a Christian ministry geared towards helping people heal from addiction.
“Your story is the reason I come to events like this,” Strawberry said, addressing those in the room who are in recovery. “I know the miracle that will take place in your life, because it has taken place in mine.”
Organizations like Recovery Alive, Strawberry said, reach out to people where they are and offer a helping hand. “Society has thrown them away, and they go into the mess to save them,” he said.
Strawberry called on others to have compassion for those struggling with substance use disorder and asked them to show love and take action. “No one signs up to be an addict,” he said. “People need help.”
Among the 344 guests in attendance were residents of Recovery Alive Homes, which serve as safe and supportive residential environments for people in recovery.
“Our residents are thriving, rebuilding their lives while improving their health and wellbeing,” Temple said. “They are working, volunteering in our community and connected to educational opportunities.
RA works diligently to help reduce overdose and recidivism rates.”
Recovery Alive is a Christ-centered 12-step program that began at Temple City Church in Selma in 2020. It has since expanded with more than 60 ministries in churches throughout the United States as well as one in Africa and one in Canada. They also have ministries in prisons, offer mental health support and operate two recovery homes.
“And it all started right here in Johnston County,” Eklund said.
