OCEAN COUNTY, N.J. – Ocean County Commissioner Frank Sadeghi joined HOPE Sheds Light over the weekend for its 13th Annual Celebration of HOPE Walk, an event that brings together people in recovery, families affected by addiction and those remembering loved ones lost.
Sadeghi spoke during the event and centered his remarks on what he described as the power of hope. The gathering was also an opportunity to recognize people in recovery while connecting families still dealing with substance use disorders to support in the community.
“It was a day to celebrate those in recovery, remember those we have lost, support those who are still struggling, and remind families that they are not alone,” Sadeghi said.
Ocean County Agencies Working With Recovery Organizations
Sadeghi said the county’s work on addiction and recovery extends beyond the annual walk. The Ocean County Health Department and Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office are among the agencies working with community organizations such as HOPE Sheds Light on education, resources and efforts to reduce the stigma surrounding addiction.
That stigma can become another barrier for someone considering treatment or reaching out for help, Sadeghi said.
“More importantly, we are working together to find ways to reduce that stigma, because asking for help is not something to be ashamed of, rather it is a powerful step towards recovery and a long, healthy life,” he said.
HOPE Sheds Light works with individuals and families throughout Ocean County and the surrounding region, providing education and connections to recovery resources.
Sadeghi thanked the organization for its work and said its efforts to educate families, connect people with help and change the way addiction is discussed are “truly changing — and saving — lives.”