2026 Events & Photos

LLRC hosts a variety of free monthly and weekly wellness events designed to support the health, connection, and well-being of our community. These recurring gatherings bring local partners and LLRC staff together to provide accessible services for anyone who walks through our doors.

-What We Offer Each Month-

Weekly Friday Yoga with Lauren & Mikaela

Every Friday, LLRC staff Lauren and Mikaela lead a welcoming, beginner-friendly yoga class focused on movement, grounding, and community.

Weekly Diamond Art Time

Every Tuesday, Trey hosts Diamond Art sessions where community members come together to create artwork in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Whether you're new to diamond art or an experienced crafter, this drop-in activity offers an opportunity to unwind, express your creativity, and connect with others. All supplies are provided by the event host.

15-Minute Reiki Sessions with Rina-Fey London

Once a month, Rina-Fey offers free 15-minute Reiki sessions to help community members relax, reset, and center themselves. Sessions are first-come, first-served.

Free Community Haircuts with Kelsey Theriault

Kelsey provides free haircuts once a month for anyone in need. This service helps remove barriers to self-care and supports confidence and wellbeing.

HIV & Hepatitis C Testing with Angelea (Frannie Peabody Center)

Each month, Angelea offers free, confidential testing at LLRC with 20-minute results and the opportunity to talk privately about resources and next steps.

Community Health Worker Drop-In with Alexa (Healthy Oxford Hills)

On the third Thursday of each month, Alexa from Healthy Oxford Hills hosts a drop-in session at LLRC.

She supports individuals of childbearing age with:

-navigating paperwork and systems

-attending appointments for support

-connections to services and resources

-advocacy tailored to individual needs

No appointment is needed — your first meeting is simply a conversation.

Vocational Rehabilitation Drop-In Orientation with Nicol

On the fourth Tuesday of each month, Nicol from Maine Vocational Rehabilitation hosts a drop-in session at LLRC as an orientation into the Vocational Rehabilitation Program.

Meet with Nicol to:

learn about Vocational Rehabilitation services
determine your eligibility for the program
begin the referral and enrollment process
explore employment, education, and career support services

For more information or Nicol's contact information to schedule an appointment at a more convenient time, please contact LLRC.

Sound Bath with Arts to Transcend

On the last Monday of each month, LLRC partners with Arts to Transcend to offer a free Sound Bath experience facilitated by Rina-Fey and Jessica. Participants are invited to relax in a peaceful environment while enjoying the calming sounds of singing bowls and other therapeutic instruments, promoting mindfulness, relaxation, and overall well-being.

No registration is required; however, space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Monthly Community Event Info Flyers

an info flyer with diamond shaped background images with

LLRC
6th Annual Golf Tournament

On August 2nd, 2026, the Larry Labonte Recovery Center proudly hosted its 6th Annual Golf Scramble Fundraiser at The Bethel Resort & Suites Golf Course. The tournament welcomed 11 teams for a day of friendly competition, community connection, and support for LLRC's mission of helping individuals and families affected by substance use disorder.

Following the tournament, participants gathered for a BBQ lunch and an awards ceremony recognizing the top teams and individual contest winners, including Longest Drive and Closest to the Pin. Thanks to the generosity of our players, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters, the event was another success. Funds raised through the tournament directly support LLRC's recovery support services, community programming, and essential resources, and we are grateful to everyone who helped make the day possible.

Monthly Sound Bath

Throughout 2026, LLRC continued offering Sound Bath events, expanding the program through a partnership with Arts to Transcend. Beginning in July, the events became a monthly offering, held on the last Monday of each month, giving community members regular opportunities to experience the benefits of sound meditation.

Facilitated by Rina-Fey and Jessica of Arts to Transcend, each Sound Bath offered a peaceful meditation experience using singing bowls and other therapeutic instruments to create an immersive soundscape. Participants were invited to sit or lie comfortably while experiencing soothing vibrations intended to promote relaxation, mindfulness, and overall well-being.

The monthly Sound Bath sessions became another way LLRC supported whole-person wellness by providing a welcoming space where community members could pause, recharge, and connect through healing, mindfulness, and self-care.

Weiner Wednesdays

Throughout the summer of 2026, LLRC hosted Wiener Wednesdays, a weekly community lunch that brought people together for free hot dogs, chips, cookies, and conversation. The event provided a welcoming, recovery-friendly space where community members could enjoy a meal, connect with others, build meaningful relationships, and learn more about the services and resources available at LLRC.

Cookies for each event were generously donated by Ralph's Market, whose continued support helped make the weekly lunches even more enjoyable. Wiener Wednesdays demonstrated how something as simple as sharing a meal can strengthen community connections and create a welcoming place for everyone.

Community Conversation with Maine CDC Director, Dr.Va

On July 9th, 2026, LLRC Executive Director Kathie and Recovery Center Coordinator Tommy attended a community discussion at The HILLS Recovery Center with Maine CDC Director Dr. Puthiery Va and representatives from recovery, prevention, treatment, and community organizations across Western Maine. The discussion focused on the unique challenges and opportunities of supporting individuals and families in rural communities.

During the conversation, LLRC shared how organizations throughout the region work together to meet people where they are in their journey, supporting both adults and students with services tailored to their individual needs. From prevention and early intervention to treatment, recovery support, and long-term wellness, the discussion highlighted the importance of collaboration in ensuring individuals have access to the resources and services they need. The gathering provided an important opportunity for local organizations to share their experiences, discuss the unique needs of rural communities, and help shape conversations about the future of recovery in Maine.

Summer School Resource Tabling
at
Mountain Valley High School

Throughout June and July 2026, LLRC participated in Mountain Valley High School's Summer School Program by hosting weekly resource tables each Monday. LLRC staff members Lauren and Mikaela welcomed students to stop by, ask questions, learn about community resources, and connect with recovery support services in a relaxed and approachable setting.

Students had the opportunity to learn more about LLRC's programs, pick up educational materials and free giveaway items, and have informal conversations with staff. LLRC appreciated the opportunity to maintain connections with students throughout the summer and continue supporting youth in the River Valley community.

See the Person, Not the Use
Community Art Making Sessions
&
Community Conversation
Art Show

Throughout May and June 2026, LLRC partnered with River Valley Healthy Communities Coalition (RVHCC) to participate in Maine's statewide "See the Person, Not the Use" initiative, a project focused on reducing stigma surrounding substance use through art, conversation, and community engagement. Funded through Maine's Project to Prevent Prescription Drug/Opioid Overdose-Related Deaths Grant, the initiative provided art supplies to organizations across the state, encouraging individuals with lived experience, affected family members, and community members to express their stories through creative artwork.

LLRC hosted free Community Art Sessions every Friday throughout May, while RVHCC also facilitated art-making opportunities during community events, including Diversity Day at Dirigo High School. Artwork created through these sessions became part of a traveling community art exhibit displayed at locations throughout the River Valley before culminating in a public Art Show & Community Conversation at the Rumford Public Library.

Artwork created by local community members was also eligible to be considered for display at Governor Janet Mills' Annual Opioid Response Summit, helping showcase the creativity, resilience, and voices of communities across Maine while reinforcing the initiative's message: "See the Person, Not the Use."

WMARI
22nd Annual
Basics of SUD Conference

On May 29th, 2026, LLRC staff attended the

22nd Annual Basics of Substance Use Disorder Conference

hosted by the Western Maine Addiction Recovery Initiative (WMARI). The conference brought together recovery professionals, community organizations, and individuals with lived experience to build connections, share ideas, and strengthen recovery efforts across Western Maine.

As part of the conference, LLRC staff member James served as a Voices of Recovery speaker, sharing his personal journey of recovery and demonstrating the hope and healing that recovery can bring. The conference also featured artwork created through LLRC's and The HILLS Recovery Center's "See the Person, Not the Use" community art sessions, showcasing how creative expression can help reduce stigma and promote understanding of recovery.

Photos Courtesy of Western Maine Addiction Recovery Initiative and The Hills Recovery Center.

LLRC & RVRS
Open Mic & Karaoke Nights

Throughout 2026, River Valley Recovers Strong (RVRS) and LLRC continued hosting Open Mic/Karaoke Nights at the Larry Labonte Recovery Center, providing a welcoming, substance-free space where community members could gather through the shared enjoyment of music.

Events were held on January 3rd and May 23rd, with the May gathering welcoming a record attendance of 38 community members, including 16 singers who took to the microphone throughout the evening.

The events created a relaxed and supportive environment where people could sing, perform, or simply enjoy the music while building new connections with others. Open Mic/Karaoke Nights continued to demonstrate how LLRC's expanded space brought the community together through fun, recovery-friendly activities that promoted connection, belonging, and fellowship.

Old School Food Pantry
Maternal Mobile Health Unit

On May 13th, LLRC participated in the Maternal Mobile Health Unit event held at the Old School Food Pantry in Mexico, joining several community organizations to connect families with valuable health information and local resources. The event brought together partners including River Valley Healthy Communities Coalition (RVHCC), Northern New England Poison Center, Med-Care Ambulance, SAPARS, Rumford Group Homes, and LLRC.

LLRC staff members Lauren and Veronica represented the center by providing information about recovery support services, recovery coaching, and community resources available throughout the River Valley. Events like this strengthen partnerships between local organizations and help ensure individuals and families know where to turn for support when they need it.

River Valley Healthy Communities Coaliation

Middle School Street Dance

On May 9th, 2026, LLRC participated in the Middle School Street Dance hosted by River Valley Healthy Communities Coalition (RVHCC) and the Greater Rumford Community Center (GRCC). Designed for students in grades 6–8, the event provided a safe, substance-free evening filled with music, games, arts and crafts, food, and opportunities for young people to connect with friends and community organizations.

LLRC staff members Lauren and Mikaela joined several community partners by hosting a craft table where students created friendship charm bracelets. Throughout the evening, they also connected with students and shared information about LLRC, community resources, provided educational materials and giveaway items. The event was a great example of local organizations working together to create positive, engaging experiences for youth while strengthening connections throughout the River Valley community.

Photos Courtesy of River Valley Healthy Communities Coalition

River Valley Chamber of Commerce
Annual Dinner & Awards Banquet

On April 30th, 2026, LLRC staff attended the River Valley Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner & Awards Banquet to celebrate one of our outstanding volunteers, Kelsey Theriault, who was honored with the Volunteer of the Year Award.

LLRC staff attended the evening in support of Kelsey as she was recognized for her dedication to the River Valley community through LLRC's monthly Free Community Haircuts program. Kelsey's compassion, generosity, and commitment to helping others have made a lasting impact on countless community members, making her a truly deserving recipient of this award.

The evening brought together local businesses, organizations, and community leaders to celebrate the individuals and organizations making a positive difference throughout the River Valley. LLRC is incredibly proud to have Kelsey as part of our volunteer team and grateful for the care and kindness she brings to our community each month.

Dirigo High School
Diversity Day

On April 29th, LLRC participated in Diversity Day at Dirigo High School, joining numerous community organizations to provide students with opportunities to learn from a variety of experiences and perspectives. Throughout the day, LLRC staff members Lauren and Mikaela led Recovery Voices sessions, sharing their personal journeys and the experiences that led them to recovery.

Students were encouraged to ask questions and engage in open conversations, creating a safe and respectful environment to learn more about addiction, recovery, and the impact of lived experience. LLRC was grateful for the opportunity to help reduce stigma, inspire hope, and demonstrate that recovery is possible.

River Valley Recovers Strong
4th Annual
Winter Recovery Rally

On March 21st, River Valley Recovers Strong (RVRS) hosted its annual Winter Recovery Rally at the Larry Labonte Recovery Center (LLRC), continuing its tradition of pro-social, pro-recovery community events. This year’s rally carried the theme “Spirit of Connection,” emphasizing the importance of community, local resources, and connections in recovery.

The event brought together approximately 80 community members, along with 12 local organizations that hosted resource tables inside LLRC’s new expanded space. Being inside and outside this year allowed for greater community engagement with resource tablers. These organizations represented a range of services related to addiction, substance use disorder, and recovery support, providing attendees with access to information, resources, and connections.

Participants gathered at LLRC and took part in a march through the surrounding neighborhoods, chanting messages of hope, support, and unity. As in previous years, the event concluded with a free community BBQ and recovery speakers focused on the rally's theme.

Mountain Valley High School Job Fair

LLRC attended a Job Fair at Mountain Valley High School on March 13th to provide students with insight into careers within the field of Substance Use Disorder and addiction recovery as a whole. During the event, LLRC staff connected with students to share information about recovery coaching, peer support, and other roles that support individuals on their recovery journeys.

The event created an opportunity for students to ask questions, learn about real-world experiences, and explore career paths focused on helping others. LLRC appreciated the chance to engage with students and highlight meaningful work within the recovery field.

Diamond Art Making

In February 2026, Trey Ames introduced Diamond Art sessions to LLRC, and the activity quickly became a huge hit within the community. This continued event regularly brings together community members in a relaxed and creative setting.

The group provided a welcoming space to connect while working on diamond art projects. Participants were able to focus on creativity, mindfulness, and social connection in a substance-free environment. Over time, this activity became a consistent opportunity for individuals to unwind, build routine, and enjoy time with others.

Join the fun every Tuesday from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM,

Mountain Valley High School Wellness Day

LLRC participated in Mountain Valley High School’s Wellness Day on February 13th. Hosted by MVHS and the River Valley Healthy Communities Coalition (RVHCC), LLRC worked alongside many other organizations to support student wellness and education.

LLRC staff Veronica and Lauren led four breakout sessions, sharing their personal recovery stories while students participated in an interactive Recovery Bingo activity. Students followed along with bingo sheets, marking off words and phrases as they were heard throughout the presentations, creating a more engaging and meaningful learning experience.

Following the sessions, LLRC hosted a resource table alongside the other organizations in the gym during the student lunch period, where staff members Anthony and Tommy connected with students, answered questions, and encouraged participation in upcoming community events, including the RVRS Winter Recovery Rally.

LLRC appreciated the opportunity to continue partnering with MVHS and RVHCC to provide education, reduce stigma, and create space for open conversations around recovery and wellness.

Point in Time
Count Event

On January 29th, LLRC provided space for the Oxford County Point-in-Time (PIT) Count Event, hosted locally by Rumford Group Homes as part of a nationwide initiative conducted annually across Maine and the country to better understand homelessness and housing instability.

The PIT Count gathers important data on unhoused individuals, living in temporary situations, or experiencing unstable housing. Community members were invited to come to LLRC to be counted and share information that helps inform local, state, and federal responses to housing challenges.

In addition to participating in the count, attendees were offered food and essential items to support those currently experiencing housing instability.

LLRC was glad to provide a welcoming and accessible space for this important community effort.

Job Fair

LLRC partnered with WorkSource Maine CareerCenter (Wilton Career Center) to host a Job Fair and Hiring Event on January 28th. With a total of 14 local businesses in attendance, the event filled LLRC’s newly expanded space and the OFCU Recovery Meeting Room, creating a busy and engaging environment for both employers and job seekers.

Community members had the opportunity to connect directly with employers who had open positions, ask questions, share resumes, and explore a variety of career paths. The event provided an accessible and supportive space for individuals looking to take the next step in employment.