METUCHEN — First Step Counseling Services has been recognized as a Tree of Hope in the world of addiction.
The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) presents the Tree of Hope award annually to an organization that promotes recovery from addiction. A ceremony to recognize the counseling center will be held Sept. 18 at the organization’s facility, 15 Calvin Place, Metuchen.
“We chose First Step Counseling Services as our 2014 Tree of Hope recipient because of their impact on the community they serve every day,” said Steven G. Liga, CEO and executive director of NCADD. “First Step offers evaluations and therapy to individuals, families and couples affected by mental health and substance-abuse issues. They not only give people hope, but also a real opportunity for recovery.”
Part of celebrating National Recovery Month, the 13th annual Tree of Hope campaign is designed to raise awareness throughout Middlesex County that addiction is an illness from which many recover, and to celebrate those recoveries.
The Tree of Hope event is one of NCADD’s primary fundraisers, and supports its confidential information and referral Helpline, which helps more than 800 individuals and families begin their journey of recovery, according to the organization.
Commemorative ornaments to decorate the tree will be offered for $5 each, and engraved crystal ornaments are available at $100 each. Ornaments for the tree can be personalized to commemorate the recovery of a loved one, in the hope of recovery for a friend or family member, or to memorialize someone who did not experience recovery. Ornaments may also remain anonymous.
NCADD will announce final details for the 2014 Tree of Hope ceremony as soon as they are finalized. Information will be available at www.ncadd-middlesex.org.