Planned Walk Aims To Bring Message Of HOPE To Heroin Fight

Battling the problem of heroin addiction in Ocean County is a task that is bringing many organizations together and into the fight to curb its spread.

While much of the focus is on stopping the distribution of the drug and prosecuting those who sell it, there are other groups working educate the community about addiction and providing support for those caught up in it -- both those using heroin and their families.

To get that message out, the organization HOPE Sheds Light will be holding its second annual Celebration of Hope Walk at the Seaside Heights Boardwalk on Saturday, Oct. 3.

HOPE Sheds Light is a Toms River-based charity dedicated to educating families on the disease of addiction. It was founded in 2012 after co-founder Ron Rosetto lost his son Marc to a battle against substance abuse, and serves to provide help and resources to families affected by addiction. Rosetto and his fellow co-founders Arvo Prima and Stephen Willis, as well as their team of volunteers and board members, work year-round to support families suffering from the epidemic of substance abuse that has become widely prevalent at the Jersey Shore.

“At the Celebration of Hope Walk, the community can come together and learn about addiction and recovery and provide hope to those families,” Rosetto said. “Those suffering don’t know where to turn for help.”

“It’s a celebration of recovery,” Prima said. “We’re always hearing about the negatives of addiction, and by bringing hope and education to the community, we support each other and those affected. We show recovery is possible.”

Last year, more than 350 people participated in the walk.

Registration begins at 8 a.m. on Oct. 3 on the beach at Hiering Avenue in Seaside Heights. Participation is free although a $10 donation is suggested. Registrants will receive a yellow T-shirt and then walk 2 miles down the boardwalk.

The event also will include speakers sharing their experience, strength and hope about recovery through real life stories and attendees will have a chance to post a message of strength on the butterfly tree of hope. The event will also feature a 50/50 drawing.

To learn more about HOPE Sheds Light, please visit www.hopeshedslight.org.

(Photos from last year’s walk, courtesy of HOPE Sheds Light.)