Restored and Revived Programs Director Marcia Bachle expressed her joy that over 200 locals attended the organization’s Family Fun Day, held on Saturday, Sept. 21, at the Souls on Fire farm, located east of Battle Ground.
The Vancouver nonprofit, which has been serving the community for four years, provides vital services like peer support, navigation assistance and resources to help individuals and families regain stability. From client representation to job hunting, Restored and Revived helps those recovering from substance abuse and re-entry into society from incarceration. Currently, the program serves more than 80 clients and their families, relying primarily on state grants for funding and donations from the community.
The Family Fun Day event was packed with activities for attendees of all ages, including a dunk tank, cornhole, a cakewalk, arts and crafts for kids and a petting zoo. A bounce house added to the excitement, as well. Reflecting on the event, Bachle said the event marked a milestone for the program.
“We’ve done [community events] with community partners. We’ve never ourselves taken on a family fun day, just specifically us hosting, so this is the first one ever. We’re really excited so many people came out to participate,” Bachle said.
Among the day’s highlights was a cornhole tournament provided by Calibration Cornhole, a company that brings the popular game to Clark County and the Portland area. The organization provided boards and bags for free play, a center focus of the day’s festivities. A cornhole tournament also took place. Entry fees went toward the event’s winner and Restored and Revived programs.
Michele Hetrick, co-owner of Calibration Cornhole and a classroom teacher, expressed her happiness in contributing to the event and the community.
“It’s just one way that we can help to give back, and because I work with students and families all of the time, it was [important] to make sure that I’m helping restore the community and help them move forward in a healthier life,” Hetrick said. “It’s just a really great opportunity for folks to have some high-quality, healthy time with their families, be off technology and do some things that are very low tech, but a lot of fun.”
Bachle emphasized the importance of bringing free, fun festivities to the recovery community.
“What we’re trying to show people is that you don’t need drugs and alcohol to have fun and that you can have an exciting life in recovery, too,” Bachle said. “So, having all these people from all different places connecting you is just amazing, and to see the kids running around and just being kids and not being sheltered …you know, they’ve got to go in and pet horses and play with goats and all the things, and that’s stuff they don’t get to do in the city. So, I’m super happy with the turnout,” Bachle said.
Those interested in learning more about Restored and Revived’s programs or donating can visit restoredandrevived.com.
