The Shatterproof Walk to End Addiction Stigma was more than just an event. It was a powerful movement that brought people together to break the stigma of addiction, celebrate recovery, honor the memory of loved ones, and raise awareness to help save lives. The Walk took place in six cities across the country—Chicago, Boston, Washington, D.C., New York City, Dallas, and Los Angeles—and provided a supportive space where participants felt inspired, supported, and motivated to continue this important work.
Each walk day started with energizing warm-ups by our amazing partners, Barry’s, a specialty fitness brand offering strength training and workouts for all people. Families and individuals also gathered around the walk site to participate in the activities we had for them and demonstrate their reason for attending our walk.
At the “Celebrating with You” tent, participants received bracelets representing their connection to Shatterproof’s mission. They also added stickers to a vinyl wall to share their reasons for walking and their hopes moving forward.
People walking in memory of a loved one received a photo lanyard to keep their loved ones close during the event. They also got the chance to write a remembrance message on a white banner that will connect their sentiments with other families from all 6 walks, showing unity and that they are not alone. Participants celebrating their recovery picked up special stickers at the “Celebrating with You” area expressing their years of recovery and the significance of their milestones.
The Walks united people. Together, we raised critical funds and amplified the voices of the 49 million Americans affected by addiction. None of this would have been possible without you and the dedication of our volunteers, who worked tirelessly to bring the Walks to life.
The sense of unity on Walk Day was undeniable. By coming together, we showed that addiction is a treatable condition, and no one should hesitate to seek support for fear of judgment. We’re stronger in numbers. The more awareness you help spread, the more education you share with the public, and the more people recognize addiction as the medical condition it is, the more people can get the help that they need to get better and thrive as the people they were always meant to be.
If you missed this year’s walks, don’t worry, we’ll be back next year! We hope to see you then.