Rome, New York (August 2026) The Center for Family Life and Recovery, Inc. (CFLR) invites community members to join us for our 7th Annual Light Of Hope: From Remembrance to Resilience event on Thursday, August 27th, from 5:00pm to 8:00pm at Griffo Green in Rome. This free community gathering serves as an evening of remembrance, healing, education, and hope for individuals and families impacted by substance use and overdose.
Each year, Light of Hope brings together community members, local organizations, recovery advocates, first responders, healthcare professionals, and families to honor the lives lost to substance use while celebrating the resilience of those in recovery and the strength of those who continue to support them.
The evening will connect attendees with local prevention, treatment, recovery, and community support services, as well as opportunities to hear inspiring stories of hope and resilience. Our keynote speakers will include Lieutenant Phil Diehl of Rome’s Fire Department and Katie Rodriguez, Director of Recovery Services at CFLR, in honor of Holly Klein. Food trucks will be on site and a remembrance ceremony including luminaries will provide a meaningful space to reflect, remember loved ones, and stand in solidarity with those whose lives have been affected by substance use.
“The Light of Hope event is one of the most meaningful moments of our year because it reminds our community that every life has value and every person deserves hope,” said Cassandra Sheets, CEO at CFLR. “Together, we honor those we have lost, support those still struggling, and stand alongside the families and loved ones forever impacted by substance use. By coming together, we help reduce stigma, inspire connection, and remind people that recovery is possible and no one has to walk this journey alone. Ever.”
Substance use impacts individuals, families, workplaces, and entire communities. Events like this help create spaces where conversations can happen openly, support can be accessed without judgment, and hope can continue to grow. Through education, connection, and compassion, CFLR remains committed to strengthening pathways to prevention, treatment, and long-term recovery throughout our region.
Whether you are honoring a loved one, celebrating recovery, seeking resources, or simply standing in support of those affected by substance use, your presence helps strengthen a community rooted in compassion and hope. For more information about the event or to purchase a luminary in advance, please visit: secure.qgiv.com/for/c7alohfrtr/ or call 315-733-1709.
Center for Family Life and Recovery, Inc. is proud to be the area’s leading expert in advocacy, prevention, counseling, and employee assistance programs. Along with supporting individuals and families struggling with addiction and recovery, mental health, and behavioral issues, CFLR’s goal is to inspire hope, provide help, promote wellness, and transform lives.
