By Denise Ortuno-Neil
In today’s world, dealing with addiction and mental health issues are more prominent than ever. Those who go through recovery need the support of their community to get through the process of healing from their addictions. To help, Heroes in Recovery, in association with Michael’s House is holding their 4th Annual Heroes in Recovery 6k event on Saturday, January 31st benefitting Safe House of the Desert.
Heroes in Recovery is an organization that promotes and supports those who are going through recovery of addiction and mental issues. Michael’s House is a treatment center part of the Foundations Recovery Network, and provides treatment of drug addiction and mental health disorders from depression to bi-polar issues.
The benefitting charity is Safe House of the Desert. The non-profit organization is dedicated to giving shelter to youth in need, focusing on runaways and victims of human trafficking, and also provides assistance with drug addiction for youth.
Jeff Skillen, one of the event organizers is excited about the annual event, “The idea is to bring awareness and break the stigma of those dealing with addiction and mental health issues,” said Skillen.
The event will take place in downtown Palm Springs beginning and ending at the Michael’s House treatment center on North Palm Canyon. The 6k will kick off at 8am and end at 10:30, meandering around the base of the grand San Jacinto Mountain. The race is open to all participants young and old with a variety of physical ability. There will be refreshments as well as musical entertainment and a variety of vendors representing intervention and recovery services.
Skillen pointed out that many people ask why the event is a 6k instead of the more traditional 5k that most races are, to which he explains, “People in recovery have to go the extra distance.”
Participants will receive a t-shirt, racing singlet and finishers metal. Prizes will be given to the top four male and females in Overall and Masters Divisions, to 1st, 2nd, 3rd and even 4th place lovingly titled, Almost Podium.
Those interested in joining the race can register online for $30, on January 30th at Running Wild in Palm Springs, or for $40 on race day. Skillen himself will be joining the race with an enthusiastic “Heck ya!”
As a community it is imperative to support those who are making strides to recover from their addictions and mental health issues. And to insure them that they are not alone will only encourage them to move forward in a positive direction. The Heroes in Recovery 6k will not only help those who need support, but also benefits our communities youth by benefitting Safe House of the Desert. So come out and help those in need go the extra distance.
For more information and to register visit www.heroes6k.com
