We are The Town of Huntington Opioid & Addiction Task Force, dedicated to raising awareness, reducing stigma, fostering connections, and promoting vital conversations about substance use and mental health. Hope and healing are at the heart of our efforts. We believe in the power of hope to inspire recovery and the importance of healing to rebuild lives. Together, we can nurture resilience, promote successful recovery, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected."

Through a strong community foundation that fosters compassion and understanding, hope and healing is possible. Through a strong community hope heals - TOH Supervisor Edmund J. Smyth

Family is the single most important thing in our lives - NYS Senator Mario R. Mattera 2nd District

Hope is a waking dream - Aristotle/ Legislator Leslie Kennedy

“Becoming you” includes both the joy and the privilege of learning to recognize the marvelous differences that exist in those around you. “Becoming you” also frees you to reach your potential, using the talents God has given you - Elie Wiesel

Unconditional love, forgiveness, and commitment are inseparable on our journey to becoming the best versions of ourselves. -Town of Huntington Councilman, Salvatore Ferro

The road to health and wellness begins with your determination to live the life you deserve. You are so much more than your addiction. Any fear or self-doubt you may feel is just the alcohol and/or drugs trying to maintain their hold on you. Make the choice to get better and don't hesitate to lean on others along the way. - Raymond A. Tierney

Through a strong community foundation that fosters compassion and understanding, hope and healing is possible. Through a strong community hope heals - TOH Supervisor Edmund J. Smyth Family is the single most important thing in our lives - NYS Senator Mario R. Mattera 2nd District Hope is a waking dream - Aristotle/ Legislator Leslie Kennedy “Becoming you” includes both the joy and the privilege of learning to recognize the marvelous differences that exist in those around you. “Becoming you” also frees you to reach your potential, using the talents God has given you - Elie Wiesel Unconditional love, forgiveness, and commitment are inseparable on our journey to becoming the best versions of ourselves. -Town of Huntington Councilman, Salvatore Ferro The road to health and wellness begins with your determination to live the life you deserve. You are so much more than your addiction. Any fear or self-doubt you may feel is just the alcohol and/or drugs trying to maintain their hold on you. Make the choice to get better and don't hesitate to lean on others along the way. - Raymond A. Tierney

Embrace the power of Hope and Healing

Current Event: September 14th- Join us!

Join us for The Annual Wellness Walk and the Installation of The Hope and Healing Sculpture Exhibit.

September 14th

11:00AM-2:00PM

Heckscher Park, Huntington

Find it on the map >

The Task Force along with local artist Susan Buroker combined forces to inspire hope and healing within our community through sculpture. Susan Buroker stated- “Rooted in the symbolism of the Phoenix, the sculpture aims to serve as a focal point for individuals seeking inspiration, encouragement, and connection.” The Phoenix will be created in stainless steel and will be 13 ft tall and 8 ft wide at the wingspan. The thematic core revolves around the collection and presentation of recovery messages- narratives sourced from over 100 individuals, either in recovery, those who have lost loved ones to addiction, or those dealing with addiction within their social circles. The base will feature these messages waterjet cut into them. “The essence of Hope and Healing lies in fostering an enduring relationship with society, providing a communal space for motivation, camaraderie, and solace” said Susan. Attendees can also enjoy free music, food, and access to various resources!

Learn more about our resources >

Learn more about our resources

“Where art overcomes barriers and can be the connection that builds bridges and transforms thinking”

The newly landscaped area in Heckscher Park will become a place where the essence of ‘Hope and Healing’ can provide a communal space to foster connection within the community.

Read all of our messages from the community:

Join us on this journey as we inspire the next generation to live an informative and healthy lifestyle!

Hope is for each one of us to have peace, love for ourselves and one another, and open hearts with kindness, compassion, forgiveness, tenderness and happiness, not isolating but growing in unity and let it begin with me

Paulette Phillippe
As long as the sun rises at dawn and sets at dusk, hope is always on the horizon. Never lose hope for a better tomorrow

Matt C.
Hope is jumping over the fire. Faith is walking through it. Carry that strength with you and know that everything you touch, turns to gold. It starts with choosing different and loving yourself. I love you

Melanie Smith
Always shine above the stars!

Kate Seeley
Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.

D.A.A.
Hold your face up to the LIGHT, even if for the moment you do not see

Jo Harrison
With hope comes healing

Mary Silberstein
Once you choose hope, anything is possible

Anonymous
Never give up!

Chris K.
YOU ARE LOVED!

Josh M.
Hope is a walking dream. Success is not the key to happiness

E.T.
You are born a star. Always be positive in life You are born a star. Always be positive in life

Kate Seeley
You are your own destiny, so decide to be happy

Sky
Hope fuels resiliency. Keep moving forward

Donny Schuler
Hope is the one thing that can get us through the darkest of times. You got this!

The Beat Lives On - Joy Neumann
Day by day, step by step, minute by minute, we can heal

Aynisa
The journey of a thousand miles begins with just one step

Anonymous
Embrace the pain! That is the old you dying

Anonymous
Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness around you

J.R.
You are not the lies that mental illness tries to get you to believe. It’s ok to ask for HELP. It takes more courage to reach out than to not. You are worth this fight. You are so very loved. You are precious. Your mess will become your message. One moment at a time. Don’t give up!! Praying for all of you everyday, God knows

Randi Frazer
In the midst of the struggle, remember that your story is still being written, and you have the power to shape its direction. Even when it feels like the weight of addiction is too heavy to bear, know that there’s a RESILIENT spirit within you capable of reclaiming your life and finding joy in every step of the journey

Rachael Barone
Keep going Keep pushing Keep smiling

Chanell Smiley
The road to health and wellness begins with your determination to live the life you deserve. You are so much more than your addiction. Any fear or self-doubt you may feel is just the alcohol and/or drugs trying to maintain their hold on you. Make the choice to get better and don’t hesitate to lean on others along the way

Raymond A. Tierney
Everyone is worthy of LOVE and RESPECT. You are braver than you think, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you believe

Jordan
Losing you to a fatal overdose has been one of the hardest things I’d endured. But it couldn’t have been harder than your every day fight against your addiction. I’ve witnessed your STRENGTH every day to overcome your struggles, and despite how low you felt, you’ve inspired me to keep fighting. If only you could see yourself through my eyes. I miss you every day! I love you! My hero.

R.F.
May the moon and the stars all lend you your light, as you sail away through the sea of night. The night is quite wide when the sea is inside it, so ride the right waves as you brave the night sea.There are far away shores to EXPLORE and DISCOVER. Go. Discover them. I will wait here for you to return with the morning. Bring me the story of all that you see. Goodnight. Sweet dreams.

Dedicated to David Portmore
May the light of God shine on you and give you strength

Anonymous
I love you to the moon and back

Anonymous
There is always light when it is dark

H.C.
Addiction is far too powerful for anyone to defeat alone. But together one day at a time, we can beat it down

Matthew Perry
Don’t be afraid of change when needed, or to stand your ground when required

Anonymous
No one gets through life alone reach out for support

HALI Community
Your final chapter is not the end but in fact it’s the beginning of a new life, a new you, a sober you, Life is Good, so be gentle and kind to yourself, Always remember one day at a time, one foot in front of the other. Always water the grass and smell the roses

Dominique Alleng
On the Wings of Hope we are stronger together

Anonymous
Let your heart lead, let your faith guide you, let the light carry you and let those around you lift you

Chris Kelly
Speak your truth, we are overcomed by the words of our testimony, so speak your truth and allow it to set you free. In your freedom there is peace, joy, and hope for another day

Anonymous
Always remember, you are enough

Anonymous
You are better than the voices in your head

J.F.
With God everything is possible

Anonymous
You are not your past

Anonymous
If you can believe it, you can achieve it

BCD Clarke
Bradley Cooper credits a friend who took the risk of having a hard conversation with him that put him on the path of deciding to change his life
Suffering with your impulses is hard, but we will OVERCOME it!

Jeff
You must be the change you wish to see in the world

Zane
The next generation should be sober because it’s helped me realize my full potential. I only wish I started sobriety sooner. I feel like I missed out on so much

H.J.
Love yourself through the process. You are amazing

Coach DJ
Your WARMTH, your love, your consistency and above all your real try at believing in me has made all the difference

Anonymous
Don’t ever hesitate to lean on friends during your dark times. They are the people who will get you through to the other side

Carole Trottere
Take care of yourself, family and friends

Anonymous
Love yourself

Anonymous
We do this together! All of it, the pain, the joy, the loss, the moments. What we once felt we walked through individually, we now know there were countless others walking around us, strangers we did not know who prayed for us, hoped for us, and set a path we could one day walk upon. Together, the only way it has ever been

Kym Laube
Finding your purpose by helping others find theirs

Kathy Koenigadol
Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall

Anonymous
The only thing we have to fear is fear itself

Joseph
It’s the person who has done nothing who is sure nothing can be done

Patrick Ewing
We find hope and strength in each other even when we can’t find it within

Aynisa
The light of your spirit OUTSHINES all of the darkness in the world

A.M.
You are not your past

Anonymous
Life is not always the party we hope it would be, but it’s beautiful nonetheless

A.T.
In honor of my “she-ro” Sharon Richmond... Who is proof there are angels on Earth representing the angels in heaven

Karen
Your journey of healing is worth every effort

Micheal Lei
Never stop trying, always look ahead

Anonymous
Recovery is possible, you are stronger than you may think, don’t give up No God, no peace, Know God and Know peace

Anthony Rizzuto, 30 years sober
Every step towards recovery is a courageous journey towards a brighter, healthier future filled with possibility and inner strength. Finding support and connection within a caring community can empower you on your path to healing, reminding you that you’re never alone in your journey

Dave Weber Jr.
I know the road you walked was anything but easy. You picked up your share of scars along the way. Oh, but now you’re standing in the sun. You’ve fought your fight and your race is run. The pain is all a million miles away

Patti Bergbuchler
Believe you can do it, because you can. You have it all within you

Tiffany
God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; Courage to change the things I can; And wisdom to know the difference. Living one day at a time; Enjoying one moment at a time; Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace; Taking, as He did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it; Trusting that He will make all things right if I surrender to His will; So that I may be reasonably happy in this life and supremely happy with Him forever and ever in the next

Ron Starrantino
It’s always darkest before the dawn. Keep going

J.G.
Success requires pivots

Crystal Santandrea
Control what you can control there are great days ahead

Anonymous
The cure for anything is salt water- tears, sweat, or the sea

Isak Dinesen
Never quit and always play big

Todd Miranda
HOPE is the LIGHT in your heart that gives COURAGE today and strength tomorrow

Barbara Posillico
Recovery is possible, and you’re not alone. Every step is a victory to celebrate. Keep believing in yourself, and seek support. You have the strength within to overcome this challenge

Paris
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; Do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go

Joshua 1:9
Do not doubt your strength, even at your weakest moments. You are more than negative thoughts, you are strength, happiness, positivity, and beauty. Embrace it

Anonymous
I am not defined by relapses, but by my decision to remain in recovery despite them

Anonymous
Never stop believing in yourself

George Philipou
Always think positive and follow your dreams

Anonymous
Recovery isn’t always a linear process. Don’t let speed bumps discourage you from reaching your goal!

Ultimate
You never know how strong you really are until you have no other choice

M.J.S.
It’s worth the struggle. Life is worth living, so live it big

Jose Vargas
Always take the time for yourself to breathe

Anonymous
Be strong you got this!

Anonymous
Greatest son and brother of all time!

Colin M. Gilmartin- The GOAT
Whatever brings you down, will eventually make you stronger. There's really no secret to success. You make your own success.

Isabella
The sun will come up tomorrow

anonymous
Look for at least ONE positive moment each day

Anonymous
GRATITUDE

Anonymous
The only constant is change, embrace yours

Anonymous
With God, all things are possible

Anonymous
Reach for the stars, you can do it!

Anonymous
Hope you have a BEAUTE of a day

Anonymous
F.I.N.A.O Failure Is Not An Option

Anonymous
One day at a time

Anonymous
Actions speak louder than words. BE KIND.

Anonymous
Be strong you got this

Anonymous
The greatest act is to help someone in their moment of need

Anonymous
All things are possible

Anonymous
Always look forward, not backwards!

Anonymous
You'll find strength by talking to people, staying positive, staying away from negative people and changing your environment

Anonymous
Success is the sum of small efforts repeated day in and day out

Anonymous
Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall

Anonymous
Always look forward and think ahead

Anonymous
Better days are coming

Anonymous
keep moving forward!

Anonymous
Believe and succeed

Anonymous
Never underestimate the power of positive thinking

Anonymous
Remember when children seem to deserve it least, they need your love the most

Anonymous
Look back, but don't stare and always keep it moving!

Anonymous
With God everything is possible

Anonymous
Remember- God loves you- Be proud of who you are

Anonymous
Determination and Willpower

Anonymous
Don't be afraid of change when needed, or to stand your ground when required

Anonymous
Tough times don't last, Simply, left foot, right foot, breathe + repeat

Anonymous
There's light at the end of the tunnel! Keep pushing through

Anonymous
The sun sets every day, but it will always rise again

Anonymous
Always smile more than you cry; Give more than you take; Love more than you hate

Description goes here
You are loveable- God doesn't make junk

Anonymous
Do you wanna be right or do you wanna be happy?

Anonymous
In the darkest moments remember to always hope for a better tomorrow

Anonymous
No matter how bad it is, at least you're not in Cleveland

Anonymous
Hold On, Pain Ends

Anonymous
Like the wings of a newly emerged butterfly, our flaws will help us fly when they are brought to the sunlight of our acceptance

C.S.W.
you MATTER

Anonymous
Failure only begins when you stop trying

Anonymous
The birds who dare to fall are the birds who learn to fly

Anonymous
Love sometimes hurts but in the end LOVE will always make you SMILE

Anonymous
Always look towards the light

Anonymous
Control what you can control, there are great days ahead!

Anonymous
Easy does it

Anonymous
You're worth it!

Anonymous
May the light of God shine on you and give you strength

Anonymous
Be kind to yourself

Anonymous
Be true to you

Anonymous
If you see someone without a smile-give them yours!

Anonymous
You are your only competition

Anonymous
Do the NEXT right thing

Anonymous
PEACE + LOVE

Anonymous
Make yourself a priority!

Anonymous
Here comes the sun... Don't give up... the sun will come and shine on you

Anonymous
Go the extra mile... it's never crowded

Anonymous
I pray every day it works!

Anonymous
Today it's up to you to create the peacefulness you long for

Anonymous
fill your day and thoughts with gratitude

Anonymous
beauty begins the moments you decide to be yourself

Anonymous
taking care of yourself is a form of acknowledgment that you are a wonderful creation of God

Anonymous
create the life you deserve

Anonymous
as long as you never give up you can truly never lose

Anonymous
make yourself a priority

Anonymous
reach for the stars, you can do it

Anonymous
Never stop believing in yourself

George Philipou
Never quit & always play big

Todd Miranda
control what you can control, there are great days ahead!!!

Anonymous
Never give up!

Chris K
On the wings of hope we are stronger together

anonymous
Let your heart lead, let your faith guide you, let the light carry you and let those around you lift you

Chris Kelly
When I placed my recovery by serving others before self, I was then able to become the person I am today. Walking with one foot in front of the other, you'll be guided through life's challenges

Jeff S
Never underestimate the power of positive thinking

Anonymous
Don't ever hesitate to lean on friends during your dark times. They are the people who will get you through to the other side.

Carole Trottere
Find your purpose by helping others find theirs

Kathy Koenigadol
We find hope and strength in each other even when we can't find it within

Aynisa
Always look towards the light

Anonymous
It's always darkest before the dawn

J.G.
Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work

Thomas Edison
When the work throws curveballs at you, and you strikeout, you're one step closer to your next homerun

Anonymous
Remember when children seem to deserve it least, they need your love the most

Anonymous
Success is the sum of small efforts repeated day in and day out

Anonymous
Look for at least ONE positive moment each day

Anonymous
"But sometimes when we break the cycle we find something better... something we never dreamed as possible." Never forget that love, strength, and support makes everything possible.

M & M
Whatever brings you down, will eventually make you stronger

Isabella
Sometimes, to see the rainbow you'll have to deal with the rain

Nayris
Remember: There is a reason the rearview mirror is smaller than the windshield- Keep looking ahead & moving forward!

Mike Gianchetta
Actions speak louder than words. BE KIND.

Anonymous
The sun sets every day, but it will always rise again

Anonymous
Take care of yourself, family, and friends

Anonymous
My darkest hours in addiction have turned into a bright shining light, from my forever grateful heart in recovery

Anonymous
The only constant is change. Embrace yours.

Anonymous
In the land of the blind the one-eyed man is king

Anonymous
Fill your day & thoughts with gratitude

Anonymous
Finding support and connection within a caring community can empower you on your path to healing, reminding you that you're never alone in your journey

Dave Weber Jr.
your SMILE is your superpower

Anonymous
True freedom is the ability, between stimulus and response, to pause and choose.

Russ Von Frank
If we put others first we will lack nothing

Amaury
Be yourself; everyone else is already taken

Oscar Wilde
Laughter is like a windshield wiper, it does not stop the rain but allows us to keep going.

Barbara Johnson
There is a crack in everything. That's how the light gets in.

Leonard Cohen
When you can't find the sunshine. be the sunshine.

Barbara Johnson
Sometimes the things you can't change end up changing you.

Barbara Johnson
When there is no hope in the future, know that there will always be power in the present.

Ariella
Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.

D.A.A.
It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light

Valentina Mazarakis
Effort is what's important. Results come second.

Moriōgai
No one is you, and that's your power.

Dave Grohl
Once you choose hope, anything is possible

Anonymous
Hope is jumping over the fire. Faith is walking through it. Carry that strength with you and know that everything you touch turns to gold. It starts with choosing different and loving yourself. I love you.

Melanie Smith
Be a star, get to the top of the mountain for success!

Robert (Flying Lightning) Avella
Inspiration is around every corner

Jose Blanco
Alone, by herself, she built the kingdom that she wanted

R.H. Sin / Kelle Panzella
Dum spiro, spero This is Latin and means, While I breathe, I hope

Patty Eljaiek
Feelings Suppressed, Instead of Expressed, Cause us to Become Depressed

S.W. Kels
Create the life you deserve

Anonymous
YOU ARE LOVED!

Josh M.
Inspire someone else and you will be rewarded!

Anonymous
Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness

Madeleine
Believe you can do it, because you can. You have it all within you!

Tiffany
Success and happiness are not the result of avoiding failure, it is the result of overcoming failure.

S.R.P.
There is ALWAYS a light at the end of the tunnel

Anonymous
Accept love

Suzette
With hope comes healing

Mary Silberstein
And like the moon, we must go through the phases of emptiness to feel full again

Anonymous
HOPE fills the cracks of my broken open heart... my saving grace that allows me to gain strength which is transformative in my own healing and growth. Grateful! I am still grateful!

Lori Carbonaro
I wish I could show you when you are lonely and in darkness the astonishing light of your own being.

Dan Simon/ 14th century Sufi poet, Hafez
Hope fills the cracks of my broken open heart... my saving grace that allows me to gain strength which is transformative in my own healing and growth. Grateful I am still grateful!

Anonymous
Your life is precious. You are an inspiration to many. You are so very fiercely loved. Your challenges shape you so one day you can help someone else. Your community loves you and needs you to keep going-one step at a time.

June Margolin, Huntington Matters
We can choose to believe in tomorrow.

Dana E. Ritcher, Huntington Matters

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