Lincoln County ‘Hands Across the Bridge’ Event is September 20

By Lincoln County Public Health

Later this month, hundreds of community members will link together on the Alsea Bay Bridge during National Recovery and Wellbriety Month for the17th annual Walter Ackerson Jr. Hands Across the Bridge event.

This September marks the 36th anniversary of National Recovery Month. Each year, Lincoln County joins communities around the nation in coming together for a month-long awareness campaign and celebration for those in recovery from mental health and substance use challenges.

During their regular meeting Aug. 20, the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners adopted a resolution proclaiming September National Recovery and Wellbriety Month in Lincoln County.

In recognition of National Recovery and Wellbriety Month, the entire community is invited to join the 17th annual Lincoln County Hands Across the Bridge event in Waldport at 11:30 am on Saturday, Sept. 20. This year’s event will feature speaker Rob Bovett, former Lincoln County District Attorney and current County Counsel for Lane County. Bovett will share the origin of the event and about the memorial for Walter Ackerson Jr.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration emphasizes that with the right treatment, support, and resources, recovery restores lives. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of people in or seeking recovery from mental and substance use disorders. This powerful local event supports those community members, counteracting stigma in a dramatic display of solidarity.

Lincoln County Hands Across the Bridge begins with a gathering at 11:30 am at the parking lot of the Alsea Bay Interpretive Center, 320 NW Highway 101 in Waldport.

The crossing will begin with the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians drummers at noon followed by a free lunch, speakers, resource tables, and family-friendly activities at 12:30 pm at the Waldport Community Center, 65 NW Hemlock St. Community members can find a link to the online event on the Lincoln County Public Health Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/LincolnPublicHealth.