Riverside University Health System – Behavioral Health (RUHS-BH) will hold its annual Recovery Happens celebration on Thursday, September 25, at Fairmount Park in Riverside. The event is scheduled from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and is open to families and community members. Its purpose is to promote hope, healing, and support for people impacted by substance use and behavioral health issues.
Recovery Happens is part of National Recovery Month, which takes place each September across the country. The event honors those in recovery, celebrates their families, and acknowledges the work of providers offering prevention, treatment, and recovery services. It also aims to remind attendees that recovery is possible.
“Recovery Happens is about more than recognizing the struggles of addiction; it is about lifting up the stories of resilience that bring hope to every person, every family and every community,” said First District Supervisor Jose Medina. “This celebration highlights Riverside County’s commitment to saving lives and supporting recovery for all.”
The day’s activities will include guest speakers, live entertainment, resource booths, children’s activities, and opportunities for participants to connect with local organizations involved in prevention, treatment, and recovery support.
Data from Riverside County show there were 674 fatal overdoses in 2024; among these deaths, 349 were related to fentanyl. This data highlights the ongoing need for comprehensive treatment and recovery programs throughout the county.
RUHS-BH provides various substance use prevention and treatment programs such as residential and outpatient care; medications for opioid and alcohol use disorders; youth-focused prevention efforts including school-based interventions; community outreach; housing support; employment assistance; peer-led initiatives; and other recovery services.
“In Riverside County, we know that recovery is possible, and it happens everyday thanks to the sustained and unwavering efforts of our Behavioral Health teams on the ground, and in our communities,” said Dr. Matthew Chang, RUHS Behavioral Health Director. “By coming together in this way, we strengthen support networks and show that no one has to face these challenges alone.”
Community members as well as service providers are encouraged to participate or volunteer at the event.
