LEWISTON, Maine — Hundreds of recovery experts and advocates made their way to Lewiston Saturday to observe "Black Balloon Day."
A nationally recognized day, Black Balloon Day is a chance for communities to remember those who lost their battle with addiction and to help those who are still struggling.
"We provide everybody with a space to come and collectively grieve the people that they've lost, to celebrate their lives...and to find that recovery does work," Ryan Paige, who helped bring Black Balloon Day to Maine four years ago, said.
Over 40 organizations and agencies tabled throughout the Pathway Vineyard Church's reception hall — their biggest year yet.
"It's groups that are out here tabling that are making the difference. You know, they're doing the front-line work, they're meeting people where they're at," said Randy Beard, who helped present awards at the event.
Beard, like many within the recovery community, struggled with his own addictions in the past. He said while addiction can at times be isolating, its connection — oftentimes fostered at events like this — can be the key factor to helping someone strive in recovery.
"And now they're gone so I'm just trying to carry it on for them, you know. I'm just trying to make up for a lot of the bad stuff that I've done in life and just do what's right," Beard added.
Although Black Balloon Day falls on March 6 this year, organizers said they wanted to recognize the day the weekend before to make sure more people could attend and take advantage of the resources available.