Lehigh County Families Share Recovery Stories at March Event

When parents struggling with addiction have to choose between attending a recovery meeting and watching their children, many skip the help they desperately need. Lehigh County, Pennsylvania just solved that problem.

On March 27, Lehigh County Drug and Alcohol will host Voices of Recovery: Stories of Strength, a free public event at Change on Hamilton Recovery Center in Allentown. The afternoon gathering will premiere video testimonials from local residents who've walked the difficult path from addiction to recovery and lived to share their stories.

"At the heart of our work is the belief that recovery is possible for everyone," said Joe Martellucci, administrator of Lehigh County Drug and Alcohol. "When individuals share their stories of resilience and healing, it reminds others who may be struggling that help is available and that there is hope for a healthier future."

Several people featured in the videos will attend the event and may share additional remarks about their personal journeys. The testimonials cover diverse paths to recovery, reflecting the reality that healing looks different for everyone.

The event doubles as the grand opening of Change on Hamilton's newly renovated lower level, now home to Journeys, a family support program. The centerpiece is Child Watch, an onsite childcare service that allows parents enrolled in recovery programs to attend counseling sessions and meetings while their children receive safe, short-term care.

"Families are often deeply impacted by substance use disorder," said Molly Stanton, the department's assistant administrator. "Recovery becomes stronger when we support the whole family."

The Ripple Effect

These programs stem from Lehigh County's Rise Above Opioids initiative, which uses evidence-based strategies and opioid settlement funds to expand treatment access. The county has invested in harm reduction services, Narcan distribution, and removing practical barriers that prevent people from seeking help.

Change on Hamilton Recovery Center, staffed by volunteers in recovery and professional staff, provides case management, support groups, and resource referrals. While not a treatment facility itself, the center connects people to the care they need and offers a supportive community at every stage of recovery.

The March 27 event runs from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., with free lunch provided for all attendees. Registration is available online through the Voices of Recovery event page.

By sharing real stories from real neighbors, Lehigh County is chipping away at the stigma that keeps too many people suffering in silence.