Sussex County Steps Up to Support at Annual Addiction Recovery Walk
Event Aims to Combat Stigma, Honor Lives Lost, and Support Recovery
The Center for Prevention and Counseling (CFPC) will host its 11th Annual Changing the Face of Addiction Walk on Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Franklin Firemen’s Memorial Pavilion in Franklin, Sussex County.
Presented by Thor Labs, the family-friendly event brings together community members to honor those lost to addiction, support individuals in recovery, and combat the stigma surrounding substance use disorders through a symbolic one-mile walk.
“I’ve seen firsthand what addiction can take—and what compassion can give,” said a longtime walk participant. “I walk in memory of those I’ve lost. I walk to honor those still fighting—quietly and loudly. I walk to celebrate the strength of people in long-term recovery, many of whom continue to fight every single day.”
The walk begins and ends at the Franklin Firemen’s Memorial Pavilion, located at Parker Street and Buckwheat Road. This low-impact route serves as a tribute to lives lost while fostering hope and support for those on their recovery journey. Nearly 700 people attended last year’s walk.
Family-friendly activities will include face painting, hair tinsel, temporary tattoos, Sussex County YMCA obstacle course, lawn games and Moo For You Ice Cream Truck. Light refreshments and music will be provided throughout the morning.
The event will be emceed by the Tri-State’s Rock Station 103.7 FM Morning Show Host Borasio, who is also a person in long-term recovery.
Traffic assistance is coordinated by Franklin Borough Police Department and the Department of Public Works with assistance from Sussex County law enforcement agencies. The Hardyston Township Volunteer Fire Department will provide a stunning backdrop of a giant American flag as local country music sister duo, Geuther Girls, perform the national anthem during the opening ceremony.
“This walk isn’t just about one person’s story. It’s all of ours,” noted CFPC Executive Director Michele Wolf. “Even if you haven’t been personally affected by addiction, chances are someone in your circle has. It shows up in families, workplaces, friend groups, and schools.”
As funding for human services and support programs for people with substance use disorders face continued cuts, fundraising events like this have become increasingly critical for nonprofit organizations.
For nearly 50 years, CFPC has worked to prevent and reduce substance use disorders in Sussex County through youth prevention programs, counseling services, harm reduction and recovery support for individuals and families.
This year’s Community Hero Sponsor Gardens of the World and Champion sponsors include Alina Lodge, Mark Lindsay & Son Plumbing & Heating and Ride with Rudolph of Royal Buick GMC along with many other local businesses and organizations.
Registration is $25 per individual or $50 per family of four, including an event t-shirt while supplies last. Sponsorship, donations and pre-registrations are available at www.RecoveryWalk.org with opportunities to register as an individual or create a team.
For more information, contact Shannon@centerforprevention.org or call 908-795-8823.
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For more than 50 years, The Center for Prevention and Counseling has empowered Sussex County communities to address addiction through youth health education, prevention programs, counseling for individuals and families with substance use disorders, harm reduction and addiction recovery support programs, peer recovery coaching and more. The organization believes in meeting people where they are on their journey and promoting compassionate, evidence-based approaches to substance use disorders. Visit www.centerforprevention.org to learn more. If you or someone needs help with substance use, please call/text 24/7 to the Sussex County Addiction Helpline 844-722-5327.
The Center Vision…
To develop the capacities of adults and children to sustain healthy lifestyles by providing services designed to foster addiction-free lives, emotional wellness, financial stability and safe communities
The Center Mission…
To promote health, hope and recovery among all people by fostering a community in which individuals and families thrive
