Community outreach during Recovery Month
September was National Recovery Month, and VPGH’s certified peer recovery specialists marked the annual observance by attending conferences and events across Virginia. These events offered an opportunity to raise awareness about problem gambling and connect directly with individuals and families to share VPGH resources.
- VPGH was a sponsor of the McShin Foundation’s Recovery Fest 2025. Sean Fournia set up an exhibit table, and Matthew Britt spoke with individuals and families impacted by substance use disorder.
- Azeem Majeed presented to the University of Richmond School of Law’s Children’s Defense Clinic. Speaking to a class of law students, he shared his journey to VPGH and the work the organization does. Majeed also met with staff at United Community Solutions to share the VPGH referral process, and presented at The Rising, an event for leaders and lawmakers in support of justice reform for juvenile offenders.
- Elizabeth Childress staffed an exhibit table and spoke with employees at Caesars Hotel and Casino in Danville. The responsible gaming event, held in conjunction with a NASCAR race weekend, is part of an ongoing collaboration with Caesars and Danville-Pittsylvania Community Services. Childress also staffed an exhibit table at the Help, Hope and Healing Conference at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center.
- Matthew Britt met with staff at the S.E.E. Recovery Center in Culpeper and spoke about problem gambling awareness and VPGH services.
- In late August, Lisa Cochran attended a virtual meeting of the Behavioral Health Docket Advisory Committee for the northwest region where she collaborated with court professionals and presented information on VPGH’s services. She also attended the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Development Services’ Recovery Conference with Matthew Britt. They staffed an exhibition table and shared VPGH resources with attendees.
The summer was equally active. Staff explored potential collaborations with community organizations and local agencies, participated in webinars, attended wellness fairs and recovery conferences, and conducted regular check-ins with support seekers.
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