Rock Into Recovery was created by Todd Lena in February 2010. He envisioned it as a celebration for people in recovery from mental health conditions and substance abuse. Todd knew first-hand what it was like to find himself confused and isolated by an untreated mental health condition and a co-occurring addiction. He was grateful to all of the people who had supported him in his recovery and began to talk to them about his idea of Rock Into Recovery.


The Grateful Friends at Rock Into Recovery, Waltham Common 2011

The Second Annual Rock Into Recovery was held on Saturday, September 24, 2011 on the Waltham Common. As many as 500 people came to learn more about the reality of recovery while listening to the music of The Grateful Friends, Ramblin’ Dan Martin and RuthAnna Welch. Peer-run organizations and programs from as far away as Taunton (SERLC), Worcester (CMRLC), and Lawrence (NERLC), Boston (MBRLC & the Transformation Center) were on the scene providing information and referrals, as well as representatives from club houses, the Veteran’s Administration, CBFS programs, and NAMI. Even the mayor of Waltham, Jeannette McCarthy, stopped by to wish us well and enjoy the event. Locally made arts & crafts were sold and The Edinburg Center’s Creative Writing group held a poetry reading in between musical acts. In the spirit of just plain fun, a magic show, balloon animals, face painting, washable tattoos, and other surprises were offered free to children and adults alike. The Edinburg Center’s day treatment program, Transitions, set up a food tent to sell low cost barbequed food, as well as desserts, snacks and beverages. We were delighted that so many people showed up to share in the hope and exhilaration of the recovery journey. We look forward to next year’s Rock Into Recovery and hope to see all of you there! (full story can be found at www.edinburgcenter.org)