Hundreds of people gathered at Forest Park in Denison on Saturday for the fourth annual United in Recovery in the Park. The community event focused on celebrating sobriety and connecting residents with local health and support resources.
The initiative began four years ago as a project by Oxford House, a network of self-managed recovery homes. What started with approximately 60 to 70 attendees has expanded to include multiple local organizations providing sober living information, healthcare services, and peer support alongside food, music, raffles, and family activities.
Chelsea Collier, a community partner for Oxford House, emphasized the collaborative nature of the effort. She stated that recovery requires community involvement and cannot be achieved in isolation.
The gathering also provided a platform for open discussions about addiction and the social stigma that often prevents individuals from seeking assistance. Collier noted that fear of judgment is a significant barrier for many people trying to access help.
Aaron Stotlar, a case manager and outreach coordinator with Callie Clinic, shared his personal experience at the event. He revealed he has 28 years of addiction history and is preparing to celebrate five years in recovery. Stotlar found support through Oxford House nearly five years ago and has remained involved to assist others.
Stotlar described his current life as happy, healthy, and career-focused, noting that he gives back to the community daily. He used a metaphor about jumping a fence to describe how he discovered a better life after seeking help.
