The ROOT Project - Rural Overdose and Outreach Team

12/23/2023

“Recovery is simply THE DESIRE TO LIVE A SAFE LIFESTYLE… TODAY!”

If you are looking for connection and nonjudgmental support for your unique recovery journey this holiday, look no further. You are invited to join Medication-Assisted Recovery Anonymous® - MARA for our 4th Annual Holiday MARA-thon. Starting at 6pm EST on 12/24 and running nonstop through 8pm on 12/25, we will be holding space for those who believe there is value in medication as a means to recovery.

No matter what your wellness journey looks like, MARA welcomes you with open arms. Looking forward to seeing you there! Zoom link below.

Meeting ID 819 2054 4432
Password MARA

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81920544432?pwd=Yk5sQU5KYis1VDFZRDNOQmJrUjR0UT09

12/05/2023

As we have often discussed in our circle, the holidays aren’t always merry and bright for everyone. Just as we celebrate our wins and embrace new intentions, we must also hold space for each other as we navigate challenges and carry heavy things. Grief, loss, despair, illness, and emptiness can make it hard to feel festive.

If this sounds like you, please know you’re not alone. Join us this Thursday for a special edition of ROOT Project’s weekly pop-up recovery center. We will be present at the PVRS Reception Hall (3920 Marion Harland Ln in Powhatan) for our regular support sessions:

2pm Recovery 101 (Topic: Letting Go)
3:30pm Acu Wellness
5pm: Families (and Friends) Anonymous

After FA, we will be hosting a candlelight meditation and gathering for all those we are missing around our tables this year. We will have refreshments, grief and loss resources, and our ROOT Recover and Remember Tree on hand to honor your recovery progress, recognize our community supporters, and remember our loved ones. After the candlelighting, we will be heading over to PCC church for their annual Blue Christmas Service, held for the Powhatan community as a way to hold space for all who are feeling somber this season for any reason and searching for some peace and connection.

Recovery 101 and FA be offered hybrid (in-person and virtual) and the PCC service will be live streamed from the church’s website as well. We will also have naloxone and harm reduction supplies like substance testing materials and wound care kits on hand, which are free of charge and always confidential.

For more info or with any questions about recovery and wellness support, text or call 434-391-9588. Messages will be returned as soon as possible, and only between the hours of 8am and 7pm, Mon-Fri. You are welcome to reach out by email to us at ROOTProjectPowhatan@gmail.com or rhantelman@goochlandva.us

We hope you’ll join us for all or part of the activities, if not to receive support, then to offer it to others. Hope to see you Thursday as we walk each other through the holiday season and into 2024. Peace and love to you all. 💜

11/20/2023

This is a great idea! Food + naloxone = much to be thankful for.

If you or anyone you know is in need of food items for a Thanksgiving meal, please let them know McShin will be handing out boxes filled with everything you need and THIS coming up Tuesday, November 21st from 10am-2pm at the Richmond Social Services Office in Southside Plaza! First come, first serve! A huge thank you to Councilman Michael Jones Richmond City Council 9th District and the Richmond City Council for the funding to make outreaches like this possible, especially during the holidays! We are in this together!💜

11/07/2023

Wellness is Recovery, and Recovery IS Possible!

For more ways to , reach out to Rural Substance Abuse Awareness Coalition, Goochland Powhatan Community Services Board, and Recovery Specialists here at The ROOT Project - Rural Overdose and Outreach Team.

“Activate Your Wellness” promotes well-being through awareness messages and calls to action - representing positivity, growth, and optimism. It’s okay if your wellness is not where you want it to be. Even a small step can help create positive change. Visit virginiapreventionworks.org/activate for tools and resources

10/27/2023

Had an incredible experience here at the National Association of Peer Supporters Conference. Thank you for inviting the ROOT team to present on Wednesday afternoon and thank you for an incredible experience here celebrating Virginia Year of the Peer 2023.

09/30/2023

Panel introductions at 3rd Annual Rural Recovery R***e (a MOBILIZE RECOVERY DAY OF SERVICE Event)