Appalachian Gathering for Recovery Solutions returns May 22

Rachel Dorroh • May 14, 2024

Now in its third year, the Appalachian Gathering for Recovery Solutions brings people from across the addictions recovery landscape together to share ideas, resources, and hope. Since its inception, dozens of organizations have been involved as sponsors and presenters, and everyone interested in learning more about recovery is invited to attend on May 22, in person or online, free of charge.

“While most of our participants are professionals from across the recovery pipeline, everyone is welcome,” says event manager and mental health counselor at Union Commonwealth University Dr. Cosmina Noaghea.

New this year, the event will be held at the Corbin Center. Previously, Union had hosted the event.

“We decided to change the venue to accommodate a larger number of in-person attendees and to enhance their overall experience during the conference,” says Dr. Kathy Blaydes-Walczak, Director of the Appalachian Gathering for Recovery Solutions and Director of Addictions Studies at Union.

The gathering features keynote speakers, panel discussions, and informative displays representing various sectors, including addictions prevention, drug courts, treatment centers, educational institutions, and community and faith-based groups.

This year, two workshops have been added, as well:

• Trauma and Co-occurring Disorders, facilitated by President of the Kentucky Association of Addiction Professionals Geoff Wilson

• Grandparents Raising Grandchildren as a Result of Addiction, facilitated by President and CEO of Operation UNITE Tom Vicini

This year’s speakers include Van Ingram, Executive Director for the Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy; Jonathan Philpot, Program Administrator of the Kentucky Recovery Housing Network; Dr. Al J. Mooney, author of “The Recovery Book”; and Geoff Wilson.

Afternoon panels will focus on prevention and recovery treatment programs, the role of community self-help groups and faith-based groups in recovery, support for building and living a healthy sober life, and legal issues related to addiction and recovery.

Professionals in the field will receive five continuing education credits (CEUs) for attending, pending approval from the Kentucky Board of Alcohol & Drug Counselors, the Kentucky Board of Professional Counselors, the Kentucky Board of Psychologists, and the Kentucky Board of Social Work.

The planning committee for the event includes representatives from Grace Health, Baptist Health, Support Centers International, and Union Commonwealth University.

Click the link below to register for the gathering or contact Cosmina Noaghea at (606) 546-1528 or ioana.noaghea@unionky.edu.

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