By Racquel Garcia and Mackenzie Garcia

This past year marked our second time hosting a Mobilize Recovery event—and, it felt
even more powerful, more impactful, and more unforgettable than the first. We didn’t
just bring an event to our community; we brought a movement. And months later, the
ripple effects are still being felt.

From the moment the doors opened, we knew something special was happening. Our
community showed up in force—individuals in recovery, family members, allies, service
providers, and people who had never stepped into a recovery space before. There was
laughter, tears, hugs, and connection. The energy in the room was electric.

One of the most unforgettable highlights was welcoming Noah Thompson and Brandon
Novak to our stage. Their stories were raw, real, and full of redemption. They didn’t just
speak—they connected. They stood shoulder-to-shoulder with our local recovery
community, reminding every person in that room that recovery is not only possible, but
worth it. Their presence elevated the entire experience and left an imprint we’re still
talking about today.

And in the middle of it all was our Home Truths conversation—a youth panel that sat
together on and shared what it’s like growing up in families impacted by substance use.
Their honesty and courage were breathtaking. Those young people didn’t just tell their
stories; they invited us into their world, challenged us to see through their eyes, and
inspired action. Since then, they’ve gone on to share their voices in new spaces, creating
change that keeps expanding.

This year’s Mobilize event wasn’t just about speakers or panels—it was about
togetherness. About dancing, laughing, crying, hugging, celebrating, grieving, and
dreaming side by side. It was healing. It was joy. It was a community remembering who
we are and what’s possible when we show up for each other.

Hosting our second Mobilize Recovery event reminded us that this isn’t a one-day
thing—it’s a movement that lives on in every conversation, every collaboration, every
step forward. It strengthened our community, deepened our partnerships, and reignited
our own passion for this work.

We’re beyond grateful to Mobilize Recovery for the opportunity. And we’re more
committed than ever to keep mobilizing, every single day.

With love and fire,
Racquel & Mackenzie Garcia