On Our Own of Charlottesville

02/13/2026

Wherever you’re at on your recovery journey, we’ll meet you there! Thanks to National Harm Reduction Coalition for this Valentine. People who use drugs deserve respect, care, and support.

People who use drugs and other harm reductionists will always be our valentines. If no one told you "I love you" today, know you are radically loved by us.

02/13/2026

02/13/2026

“When I sing, trouble can sit right on my shoulder and I don’t even notice.”
-Sarah Vaughan. Jazz singer and pianist. 1924-1990
This year marks the 100th year of Black History Month, started by Carter G. Woodson to preserve the history of African Americans and our contributions which he felt were “overlooked, ignored, and even suppressed by the writers of history textbooks and the teachers who use them.” Unfortunately, the inclusion of Black history in this country, which is a vital part of American history lest we repeat the past, has been seen somehow as controversial or threatening. We feel like the celebration of the contributions of Black Americans and the struggles we have overcome is necessary to give a more complete picture of America and to keep us moving forward as a nation. We’ll continue to do our part to raise awareness of those who may not always get the recognition they deserve and we invite you to learn more about them.

02/12/2026

“Service simply means we embrace the possibility of living for more than ourselves.”
-Wes Moore. Politician, businessman, author, and former U.S. Army officer, serving as the 63rd governor of Maryland since 2023. b. 1978
This year marks the 100th year of Black History Month, started by Carter G. Woodson to preserve the history of African Americans and our contributions which he felt were “overlooked, ignored, and even suppressed by the writers of history textbooks and the teachers who use them.” Unfortunately, the inclusion of Black history in this country, which is a vital part of American history lest we repeat the past, has been seen somehow as controversial or threatening. We feel like the celebration of the contributions of Black Americans and the struggles we have overcome is necessary to give a more complete picture of America and to keep us moving forward as a nation. We’ll continue to do our part to raise awareness of those who may not always get the recognition they deserve and we invite you to learn more about them.

02/12/2026

02/11/2026

We’re very happy to welcome the newest member of the On Our Own team, Peer Recovery Specialist LaShawna Gray! You’ll be seeing her in groups at our yellow house and on zoom.

Of herself, LaShawna says, “my lived experience, passion for recovery, and commitment to reentry and community support drive the work I do every day. I’m grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside others on their journey toward stability, healing, and hope.”

Welcome, LaShawna! We’re glad you’re here!

02/11/2026

“The revision of any kind of established model is always a political act.”
-Kerry James Marshall. Artist and professor. b. 1955
This year marks the 100th year of Black History Month, started by Carter G. Woodson to preserve the history of African Americans and our contributions which he felt were “overlooked, ignored, and even suppressed by the writers of history textbooks and the teachers who use them.” Unfortunately, the inclusion of Black history in this country, which is a vital part of American history lest we repeat the past, has been seen somehow as controversial or threatening. We feel like the celebration of the contributions of Black Americans and the struggles we have overcome is necessary to give a more complete picture of America and to keep us moving forward as a nation. We’ll continue to do our part to raise awareness of those who may not always get the recognition they deserve and we invite you to learn more about them.

02/10/2026

“You could study something to death. I believe in making decisions. We’re a town that can innovate.”
-Charles Barbour. Nurse, first African-American mayor of Charlottesville known as the “father of the downtown mall”. b. 1936
This year marks the 100th year of Black History Month, started by Carter G. Woodson to preserve the history of African Americans and our contributions which he felt were “overlooked, ignored, and even suppressed by the writers of history textbooks and the teachers who use them.” Unfortunately, the inclusion of Black history in this country, which is a vital part of American history lest we repeat the past, has been seen somehow as controversial or threatening. We feel like the celebration of the contributions of Black Americans and the struggles we have overcome is necessary to give a more complete picture of America and to keep us moving forward as a nation. We’ll continue to do our part to raise awareness of those who may not always get the recognition they deserve and we invite you to learn more about them.

02/07/2026

02/06/2026

Everyone deserves a fair shot at housing. 🏠
If you’ve been denied housing because of a criminal record, your voice matters. Join this community conversation and help shape real solutions. 💚

02/06/2026

Community care is healthcare. How do you support your community and how does your community support you?

02/06/2026

“I want my son to rest in power. I want his name and his spirit to rise, to change the world.” – Sybrina Fulton, mother of Trayvon Martin

Today, on what would have been Trayvon Martin’s 31st birthday, our museum shines a light on his life and legacy. His mother Sybrina Fulton remembers him as an adventurous kid who loved planes and aspired towards a career in aviation.

"The airport also reminds me of Trayvon. I always think about if he was going to fix the plane [or] fly the planes because he wasn't really sure." Fulton reflected on the 10th anniversary of his death in 2022.

She remembers Trayvon as a teenager who played football, enjoyed music, and loved his family deeply.

Trayvon Martin’s story reignited a nation’s fight for social justice, a fight that continues today, and well into our future.

📸 Courtesy of The Trayvon Martin Foundation.