Kentucky Town Hosts Free Recovery Stories Event March 27

When someone enters recovery from addiction, they've often lost everything, including the trust of their community. Now one Kentucky town is working to change that, one story at a time.

Community Partners for Recovery is hosting "Voices of Recovery" on March 27 at Barren County High School in Glasgow. The free event welcomes anyone in the community, whether they're in recovery, supporting a loved one, or simply want to understand addiction better.

Three speakers will share their personal journeys through addiction and into recovery. The keynote speaker is Beverly Vance Aikins, mother of Vice President JD Vance, who will discuss her own recovery story. She'll be joined by Bambi Adams from Lake Cumberland Recovery and local resident Starr Whitlow, who plans to share her experience with trauma, addiction, and long-term recovery.

"It's important just to educate the public and what better way to educate people than hearing real-life stories who have lived it and have come out on the other side," said Libby Short, the nonprofit's executive director. She believes firsthand accounts help communities understand how addiction touches families, workplaces, and neighborhoods.

The event tackles a critical barrier to recovery: stigma. When people in recovery face judgment instead of support, rebuilding their lives becomes even harder. Short emphasizes that breaking down these stigmas helps create communities where people can heal.

Beyond the speakers, local and regional organizations will staff information booths throughout the evening. Attendees can connect with treatment centers, counseling services, and support groups. The tables will offer resources for anyone seeking help for themselves or a loved one, plus giveaways and door prizes.

The Ripple Effect

This event represents a shift in how communities approach addiction. Rather than treating recovery as something to hide, Barren County is creating space for honest conversation. When neighbors understand the reality of addiction and recovery, they're more likely to offer support instead of judgment.

The impact extends beyond the auditorium. Every person who attends leaves with better tools to support colleagues, family members, and friends facing addiction. Resource booths connect people directly to help that could save lives.

Glasgow is proving that recovery happens in community, not isolation.