Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Recovery Month Proclamation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission proclaims September as National Recovery Month after local advocates request support
Summary
Following remarks from local recovery advocates, the commission adopted a proclamation recognizing September as National Recovery Month and authorized public displays and events to support recovery awareness while noting the county's neutral stance toward any single nonprofit.
The Hampshire County Commission voted Aug. 26 to proclaim September as National Recovery Month in Hampshire County after local recovery advocates requested county recognition.
Estella Garber, director of Hampshire County Pathways and a person in long‑term recovery, spoke to the commission and urged the county to stand visibly with the recovery community. "It is not about 1 organization. It is about uniting communities across West Virginia to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and show support for individuals in recovery," Garber said, asking the commission to either support the West Virginia Goes Purple initiative or to adopt a county proclamation recognizing Recovery Month.
Commissioners said they appreciate local recovery efforts and that prior years had included similar approvals for local awareness events. President Eglanger read a proclamation that states: "Hampshire County Commission hereby proclaim September as recovery month in Hampshire County, West Virginia and encourages all citizens to support this observance by engaging in community events, displaying purple decorations, and promoting a culture of understanding, hope, and recovery." The commission adopted the proclamation by voice vote.
Commissioners and staff confirmed an existing local candlelight vigil and awareness event would continue; commissioners clarified the proclamation does not endorse any single nonprofit but supports visible community recognition of recovery and reduced stigma.
