CHEYENNE, Wyo. — An upcoming event aims to recognize the achievements of Wyomingites in long-term recovery, as well as discuss the state’s ongoing battle with substance use disorders.
Recover Wyoming, a Cheyenne-based nonprofit organization, is hosting its 13th annual Cajun Fest at 5:30 p.m. Friday at Laramie County Community College. The event will feature an inspiring speech from a recovery speaker, a comedian performance, a Cajun dinner, live and silent auctions and program updates.
Recover Wyoming is the only Recovery Community Organization based in Wyoming, according to executive director Lana Mahoney. The group specializes in providing free peer-based recovery support programs to the public. Cajun Fest raises anywhere from $20,000 to $25,000 annually to support these operations, Mahoney said.
Cajun Fest is held every September to highlight Recovery Month. Mahoney and her team also use the event to celebrate those in recovery and bring a light to substance use issues in Wyoming.
“While many Wyoming residents do find recovery from substance use disorder, people continue to struggle with addiction in Wyoming communities,” Mahoney told Cap City News via email. “People are dying from the disease and it’s our mission to educate, advocate, and continue to save lives.”
In addition, Mahoney and her team have a myriad of resources available for people experiencing homelessness or who are at risk for homelessness, such as case management, housing search information and financial assistance.
Recover Wyoming brings in a recovery speaker for each year’s Cajun Fest. At this year’s fundraiser, Josephine Carlson will be sharing her experiences working through recovery and supporting a loved one struggling with addiction.
To keep the event running on a high note, comedian Mark Lundholm will take to the stage to bring the laughs to the festival. Lundholm, who is also in recovery from substance use, has performed across the U.S. and appeared on TV networks such as Comedy Central, CBS and NBC. Lundholm has previously performed at Cajun Fest.
Recover Wyoming’s annual fundraising event will be held at the ANB Bank Leadership Center inside LCCC’s Clay Pathfinder Building. Tickets are $60 per person or $600 for a table of eight. To purchase your ticket, click here.
