BONNYVILLE - The Bonnyville Indian-Metis Rehabilitation Centre (BIMRC) is putting on a walk-a-thon fundraiser Aug. 24 called the Walk for Wellbriety. Proceeds from the walk will go to BIMRC and to Kokum's House, a men’s transitional house.
Recovery coach Stephen Wright is on the event committee for the Walk for Wellbriety, and explains that the event aims to raise awareness and promote addiction recovery in the community. It will allow people to understand how addiction recovery is being handled in the community, the type of approach the rehabilitation centre takes, and that it is an available resource in the community.
“We promote ‘wellbriety,’ by that we mean wellbeing and sobriety, so that encompasses both the contemporary and holistic approach to recovery,” said Wright.
“Participants can choose from 3 km, 5 km, or 10 km routes, fostering an inclusive environment for all fitness levels. After the walk-a-thon, a celebratory barbecue lunch will be held at the BIMRC starting at 12 p.m., providing a platform for connection and community building,” according to information from the BIMRC.
Wright adds, “We have a virtual walk as well, so you can record your walk and participate.”
Wright offered some insight into what their addiction recovery program looks like.
“BIMRC offers a 42-day treatment program that has a holistic approach, coupled with the contemporary 12-step treatment programs. So, we focus on mind, body, soul and the emotional and cultural aspects of everything...T he program is open to everyone and cultural aspects such as a sweat lodge are offered to those who wish to participate.”
Wright highlights the need for addiction recovery, mental health support, housing support, and employment training, especially given the lasting effects the COVID pandemic had on individuals.
“Part of the reason we're doing this is that we’ve been quite isolated from the communities that we serve. We’re trying to open up more again, let people know who we are and what we do,” said Wright.
He explains how Kokum’s house has an aligned philosophy with BIMRC - since they both support a holistic approach to recovery.
According to information from Kokum’s House, “The program focuses on empowering individuals to become employment-ready, self-sufficient, and connected to their community. . . Residents receive comprehensive support and guidance to address the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of recovery.”
BIMRC and Kokum’s House are working to give people the tools, confidence, and support to benefit all aspects of their lives.
Wright explains how the BIMRC program educates about intergenerational trauma, and how helpful this understanding is in someone's recovery journey.
The Walk for Wellbriety offers an opportunity for the community, family, and friends to get together for an important cause and support those going through recovery.
Registration and information can be found at 2024 — Walk 4 Wellbriety — Race Roster — Registration, Marketing, Fundraising