On Tuesday, October 29th, 2024, the parking lot of 2626 Fairfield Avenue came to life with costumes, candy, and a riot of color. In what is fast becoming a beloved tradition, Avenues Recovery Center at Fort Wayne hosted its first annual pre-Halloween “Trunk-or-Treat”. This event, open to the entire recovery community, allows folks to get into the Halloween holiday spirit and engage with like-minded peers in a fun, sober environment.
For people in recovery, connection to a strong support network is crucial. An active community gives them the warmth and connection needed to sustain sobriety long-term, and that is what Avenues Recovery strives to provide. With contests, activities, refreshments and his trunk-or-treat event was a prime opportunity for families to connect and enjoy Halloween activities in a safe space.
Some highlights of the event included creatively decorated car trunks and a DJ, as well as exciting activities such as a bouncy house, photo booth, face painting, Halloween games, and a pumpkin painting station. Free candy was distributed to all costumed attendees, and free grilled goodies, smores, and beverages were available for all. Hundreds of people passed through the buzzing parking lot throughout the event, imbibing the joyful and festive atmosphere.
“We just want to be involved in the community. We want people to be able to come, bring their family and friends, and enjoy a good night out,” shared Jon Elia, executive director of Avenues Recovery Center at Fort Wayne. “We want to eliminate the stigma. There’s a lot of people here in recovery; they’re good people, they’re trying to get back to their community.”
Local news station Wane 15 provided live coverage of the event.
To learn more about Avenues Recovery Center’s locations and programs, please reach out at 866-479-8334, or visit www.avenuesrecovery.com.