Recovery Advocacy Day 2026

While winter weather forced us to cancel our planned Recovery Advocacy Day on January 27, our commitment to advocating for recovery, harm reduction, and supportive policies did not waver. Instead, we regrouped and made our way to the Virginia General Assembly on February 4 for a meaningful day of engagement, connection, and visibility at the Capitol.

Our team met with legislators and their staff to share why recovery support services are essential to individuals, families, and communities across Virginia. These conversations are a critical part of our advocacy work — they allow us to elevate lived experience, highlight the impact of evidence-based policies, and ensure decision-makers understand what is at stake when it comes to substance use, recovery, and overdose prevention.

A special highlight of the day was being formally recognized on the House Floor by Delegate Adele McClure. In her remarks, Del. McClure lifted up the importance of recovery advocacy and the work being done by SAARA and our partners across the Commonwealth. Being acknowledged in this way was both an honor and a powerful reminder that recovery has a place in the halls of government.

Below, you can watch the clip of Del. McClure’s recognition on the House Floor, as well as see photos from our time at the Capitol — including meetings with legislators and moments from throughout the day.

Even when plans change, our mission remains the same: to advocate for policies that support recovery, reduce harm, and save lives. We are grateful to everyone who continues to stand with us in this work, and we look forward to many more opportunities to bring the voices of our community to the General Assembly.