Recovery Today Newsletter

Every Step Has a Story

Helio Health Staff Members

One of the most meaningful parts of the Run for Recovery 5K & Kids Fun Run isn't measured by finish times—it's measured by the stories behind each participant. Every runner arrives with a different reason for lacing up their shoes. Some run in celebration, some in remembrance, some in support of a loved one, and others as part of their own recovery journey. Together, their stories remind us that hope is always worth pursuing.

For the past several years, Jim Proietti has been one of those runners. This year, he generously shared the deeply personal story behind why the Run for Recovery holds special meaning.

Jim's son, Jeff, had an infectious passion for life. As a young athlete, he discovered a love for running through track and field and found joy in challenging himself and encouraging others to stay active. Later, Jeff embraced obstacle races, inspired by the camaraderie of people who started and finished together.

Everything changed in an instant when Jeff was tragically killed by a distracted driver.

In the months that followed, Jim struggled to cope with overwhelming grief. He withdrew from the people who loved him and turned to substance use in an attempt to numb the pain. Eventually, he realized that healing could only begin by facing his loss and choosing recovery.

Today, Jim describes healing simply: "To continue to do the next right thing."

Recovery also meant rediscovering one of the things Jeff loved most—being physically active. That's why the Run for Recovery became such an important part of Jim's journey.

"It was right up my alley," Jim says. "Inspiring people to run, walk, and move. That's what Jeff wanted."

To honor his son's legacy, Jim and his family established the Jeff Proietti Wellness Foundation, carrying forward Jeff's passion for health, fitness, and helping others. "I didn't want his passion for life to die with him," Jim explains. "I run for Jeff. And I also run for all of those who are still fighting addiction. If I can find my way forward, I know you can, too."

Jim's story reminds us that recovery isn't always a straight path. Sometimes it begins with grief. Sometimes it begins with hope. And sometimes it begins with simply taking the next step.

Watch Jim's inspiring video to learn more about his healing journey.

Do you know someone with an uplifting recovery story? We’d love to celebrate and share it. Reach out to Susan LaPlaca, Development Director, at slaplaca@helio.health.

Mobile Crisis Unit Begins

“Responding With Humanity” Project

Each year, your generous donations help fund Foundation grants for projects that enhance the lives of the people we serve. The Mobile Crisis Unit received a grant to purchase essential clothing and hygiene supplies to support individuals experiencing homelessness and others with unmet basic needs.

Recognizing the value of these items in engagement efforts, supplies were integrated into all Mobile Crisis vehicles, significantly increasing accessibility and distribution in the field.

These resources have not only addressed immediate basic needs, but have also served as a critical engagement tool—enhancing rapport, trust, and willingness to accept services among high-acuity individuals.

Notably, on two occasions, the ability to provide basic necessities directly contributed to successful transitions to a higher level of care (HLOC), and on another, supported initiation of the inpatient admission process for substance use disorder treatment. In each case, meeting foundational needs was a key factor in building the trust necessary for individuals to accept further intervention. Sam Castleberry, grant project director said, “Without the support of the Helio Health Foundation Grant, these connections to care may not have been possible.”

 Oneida County Drug Court Expansion Introduces "Graduation Celebration" Project    

Since implementing its Foundation grant in January, Drug Court Expansion has provided recovery t-shirts, cupcakes, and assorted Helio Health "swag" to 16 graduates. Andrea LoParco, grant project director, shared, “The presentation of graduation gifts has allowed us to pause and show appreciation for how far our graduates have come. The response from participants has been great. I ran into a participant that graduated in March and he told me that whenever he is having a rough day, he wears his graduation t-shirt, and it reminds him that he can overcome obstacles one day at a time.“

Save the Date!

Recovery Month BBQ

Mark your calendar for the 4th Annual Recovery Month Community BBQ on Saturday, September 5th from noon - 3:00 p.m., hosted by the Helio Health Recovery Center. Join us at 714 Hickory Street, Syracuse to celebrate recovery and enjoy (abundant!) food, lawn games, and camaraderie. It’s an afternoon of hope and healing you won’t want to miss! There is no cost for the BBQ, and all are welcome!

The Recovery Center is a peer-led community center serving Syracuse and the surrounding communities by providing a safe space to support individuals in recovery as well as their family and friends. It provides programs, meetings, resources, and special events, inclusive to the entire recovery community. The Community BBQ is held to kick off Recovery Month, spreading awareness that recovery is possible.