SEASIDE HEIGHTS – There is hope in the battle against addiction and the members of Hope Sheds Light Inc. is celebrating that through its 6th Annual Celebration of Hope Walk on Sept. 7 at the Seaside Heights boardwalk.
Hope Sheds Light, a non-profit organization based in Toms River, is dedicated to educating families about the disease of addiction.
Organization Chief Executive Officer Pamela Capaci said “those impacted by addiction typically don’t know where to turn to for help. Our walk offers them community support.”
She added that during the walk the community will come together to learn about addiction and celebrate recovery and provide hope to those affected.
Capaci said that the annual event includes the formation of teams and that each walk team, “is encouraged to have at least four members and to set a fundraising goal to participate in our walk challenge.”
“The team that raises the most funds for Hope Sheds Light will be recognized at the event and prizes will be given to the top three fundraising teams,” Capaci said.
The two-mile walk has grown each year since it started according to Capaci. She said that 2,000 participants have been a part of the fundraiser in the past. “This year, we are hoping to have 3,000 plus participants create a sea of yellow on Sept. 7.”
“It is just so powerful to see our community come together to provide hope for those suffering from this epidemic,” Capaci said.
The event will also include speakers who Capaci said will inspire attendees. A “Tree of Hope” will also be present to remember those lost to addiction.
Various vendors, face painting, music, a 50/50 raffle and much more will be part of the “celebration of recovery,” Capaci said.
Resources will also be offered to families facing addiction issues. Capaci stressed that the walk is designed to make people aware “that help is nearby and that families can recover together. Come down and walk with us. Hope is here for you.”
The organization was formed in 2012 after co-founder Ron Rosetto lost his son Marc to a battle against substance abuse. Rosetto was joined by co-founders Arvo Prima, Stephen Willis and Capaci. Each are excited about the expansion of the organization’s mission.
The group will soon open a new recovery community center in Toms River. The organization will offer peer-based recovery services, family support groups, social recreational outings, wellness workshops and physical activities for the whole family.
To learn more about Hope Sheds Light visit HOPEShedslight.org.
