'Recovery Happens' Celebration Scheduled This Week In Riverside County

The following is a Sept. 22, 2025, news release from the County of Riverside:

RIVERSIDE, CA — Riverside University Health System – Behavioral Health (RUHS-BH) is set to host its annual Recovery Happens celebration on Thursday, Sept. 25, at Fairmount Park, located at 2601 Fairmount Blvd. in Riverside.

The free, family-friendly event runs from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and highlights hope, healing and community support for those affected by substance use and behavioral health challenges.

Recovery Happens is observed nationwide each September as part of National Recovery Month to honor individuals in recovery, celebrate families and recognize providers who offer prevention, treatment and recovery services. The event serves as a reminder that recovery is possible and that treatment saves lives.

“Recovery Happens is about more than recognizing the struggles of addiction; it is about lifting up the stories of resilience that bring hope to every person, every family and every community,” said First District Supervisor Jose Medina. “This celebration highlights Riverside County’s commitment to saving lives and supporting recovery for all.”

The event will feature guest speakers, live entertainment, resource booths, children’s activities and opportunities to connect with local organizations that provide prevention, treatment, and recovery support.

According to data from RUHS Public Health’s Epidemiology Program and the Riverside Overdose Data to Action (RODA) dashboard, Riverside County recorded 674 fatal overdoses, including 349 fentanyl-related deaths, in 2024. These numbers underscore the ongoing need to deliver compassionate treatment and recovery services countywide.

RUHS-BH’s substance use prevention and treatment programs offer a wide range of support, including:

• Residential and outpatient treatment programs
• Medications for Addiction Treatment (MAT) for opioid and alcohol use disorders
• Youth prevention programs, school-based interventions, and community outreach
• Recovery support services, including housing, employment assistance, and peer-led programs

“In Riverside County, we know that recovery is possible, and it happens everyday thanks to the sustained and unwavering efforts of our Behavioral Health teams on the ground, and in our communities,” said Dr. Matthew Chang, RUHS Behavioral Health Director. “By coming together in this way, we strengthen support networks and show that no one has to face these challenges alone.”

Community members, providers, and organizations are encouraged to participate. To register as a volunteer, visit: https://bit.ly/RecoveryHappens25-Volunteer