RICHMOND, Ky. – Kentucky River Foothills invites the community to an Afternoon of Hope on Friday, July 10, from 3 to 6 p.m. at Liberty Place, 135 Holly Street in Richmond, to celebrate Madison County’s designation as a Recovery Ready Community.
The free, family friendly event will recognize a milestone that reflects the hope, resilience, partnerships, and shared commitment that make recovery possible every day.
The Recovery Ready Communities program, established through Kentucky’s Office of Drug Control Policy and the Recovery Ready Communities Advisory Council, recognizes counties that have built strong systems of support for individuals and families affected by substance use disorder.
To earn the designation, communities must demonstrate access to services across the full continuum of care, including prevention, treatment, and recovery support, while fostering collaboration among local organizations, health care providers, employers, schools, law enforcement, and community leaders. The designation represents a commitment to ensuring that recovery is possible and that no one has to walk the journey alone. It also helps communities identify and strengthen gaps in addiction services while promoting long term recovery and healthier communities. (Kentucky Justice & Public Safety Cabinet) “This designation is more than a recognition. It represents the dedication of countless individuals and organizations working together to create a community where hope is stronger than addiction and where recovery is supported every step of the way,” organizers said.
The celebration will be emceed by Colleen Spencer of the Richmond Chamber of Commerce and will feature inspiring stories from individuals whose lives have been transformed through recovery.
Guest speakers include Tara Hyde, a recovery advocate with People Advocating Recovery, Gene Deathridge, who will share his personal recovery journey, and Julie H., a Liberty Place alumna who will share her story of hope and healing.
Attendees can enjoy free food and drinks, music provided by DJs Todd and Kayla, community and recovery resources, children’s activities, free event T shirts while supplies last, and more.
Due to limited parking at Liberty Place, attendees are encouraged to use the designated overflow parking areas. Parking will be available at God’s Outreach Food Bank, 1512 East Main Street (just across the street from Liberty Place, within walking distance).
Additional parking is also available along neighborhood streets surrounding Liberty Place, the empty lot located at the corner of East Main Street and Lake Street. Shuttle service will be provided for attendees who park at Life Church, 1705 Irvine Road, or the Salvation Army, 1619 E Main Street.
The event is open to everyone, whether you are in recovery, love someone who is, work in the field, or simply believe in building stronger communities.
“If you believe in hope, healing, and second chances, we want to see you there,” said David Estepp, Executive Director of Kentucky River Foothills. “Recovery belongs to our entire community, and every person has a role in creating a future where individuals and families can thrive.”
For more information, email katkins@foothillscap.org or call (859) 494-5079.
