One Peer to Another golf fundraiser postponed to spring

An upcoming golf tournament fundraiser for One Peer to Another, a free, non-clinical peer support organization supporting people seeking wellness and recovery, has been postponed from its original Sept. 18 date to the spring.

Michelle LaDue, executive director of One Peer to Another, said they have never hosted a golf tournament before, and grabbed the first available date at Loudon Country Club. There was more interest in donations and sponsorships for the event than expected, and they eventually came to the decision to postpone until the spring, to host the most successful event possible.

Instead, One Peer to Another representatives will be at the Statehouse, in Concord, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 18, for the 5th annual Archways Recovery Rally. The free, family friendly event celebrates connections and hope for people and families affected by substance use disorder.

One Peer to Another collaborates with Archways, as well as the Lakes Region Community Mental Health Center, Riverbend Mental Health Center, local recovery houses, and Belknap County Recovery Court.

LaDue said they also get clients referred to them for services through The Doorway at Concord Hospital-Laconia, and mental health services are difficult to get into.

One Peer to Another is a member-driven organization that earlier this year was certified as a recovery-friendly workplace. Many employees have lived experience with substance use disorder, and can help clients on their wellness journey, by relating to their struggles.

The organization offers group meetings; one-on-one meetings; educational opportunities involving budgeting, employment, and affordable housing; and recreational activities. They also provide experiences through outreach for clients to immerse themselves in the community, serving at local animal shelters or cleaning up public parks.

LaDue said on a given day at the office, “you never know what hat you’re going to wear.”

LaDue said, like many recovery services downtown, One Peer to Another is accessible to people in need of services, and aims to meet them where they are, at the office on Union Avenue, across from Laconia High School. The organization offers free transportation to their office, as well as satellite groups that meet in community settings such as a coffee shop or a home.

This especially is helpful for clients who reside at Sunrise Towers, an apartment complex for elderly people and people with disabilities, who might not be able to get to One Peer to Another’s office.

For more information, visit onepeer.org.