Community Impact Team Launches Recovery Support Group

The North Reading Community Impact Team is launching its first in-town recovery support group. Unlike many group models, this model welcomes both those in recovery as well as the families and loved ones of those affected by addiction in one space.

Drug-Free Communities Grant Director Amy Luckiewicz explained, “Our aim is to provide a welcoming space for first-person learning and support that comes from multiple perspectives-from those who have experienced addiction and from those who loved someone with addiction.”

The group will be held twice a month on Thursdays beginning Thursday, April 17th from 6:30pm-7:30pm at the O’Leary Senior Center. Hosted by Peer Recovery Coach Emily Earle, the group is free to those living or working in North Reading. There is no registration and drop-in is welcome. Participants must be 16 years of age or older.

Programming also aims at encouraging shared resources, discussing challenges and building a sense of belonging in a compassionate like-minded group. Earle added, “Confidentiality is a priority. Participants should feel safe sharing their experiences.”

The Recovery Support Group is funded by the town’s Opioid Abatement Settlement, funded by a lawsuit against opioid manufacturers and distributors.

Residents and those working in North Reading are also encouraged to take advantage of other support programs and resources in North Reading such as regular naloxone trainings, drug education programs, and the Peer Recovery Coach Program.

North Reading Mental Health/Substance Use Clinician Laura Miranda is also available to help guide those in need to support. To connect with Laura, call 978-357-5038 or email lmiranda@nrpd.org. To view more support programs, visit www.northreadingma.gov/CIT and click “Opioid Resources” in the left navigation.