Dear Friends,
As we close the chapter on 2024, I am overwhelmed with pride and gratitude for the incredible strides Sauk Valley Voices of Recovery (SVVOR) has made this year. At just five years old, we’ve blossomed from a passionate vision into a vital lifeline for our community, overcoming challenges and expanding our impact in ways we once only dreamed of.
Building a Thriving Recovery Community
Our work is grounded in the belief that recovery is more than overcoming substance use—it’s about rebuilding lives, fostering healthy connections, and creating a supportive, stigma-free community. With your support, we’ve established a robust recovery network across Lee, Whiteside, Ogle, and DeKalb counties. Together, we are proving that recovery is not just possible—it’s worth celebrating.
What began as a personal mission to find a supportive recovery community has flourished into a movement. Each member of our team brings unique ideas and boundless passion, helping us innovate and expand our services. Along the way, we’ve been blessed by countless individuals and organizations who share our vision. To each of you who has contributed your time, resources, or encouragement—thank you. SVVOR would not be where it is today without you.
Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Impact
This year’s annual report highlights the remarkable progress we’ve made in addressing the substance use crisis in our region. From providing life-changing peer support to hosting community-building events like the Recover-Con Podcast and Event, we’ve been steadfast in our commitment to fostering resilience, reducing stigma, and empowering individuals to embrace recovery.
Substance Use in Illinois: The Need for Action
The need for recovery support has never been greater. Illinois continues to grapple with the devastating effects of substance use disorders (SUDs). In 2022 alone, the state experienced 3,261 opioid overdose fatalities—an 8.2% increase from the previous year. Synthetic opioids like fentanyl have fueled this surge, with deaths increasing by an astounding 3,341% since 2013. These sobering statistics underscore the importance of organizations like SVVOR in addressing this crisis.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we step into 2025, we do so with renewed determination and bold plans. This annual report is not just a reflection of where we’ve been—it’s a roadmap for where we’re going. Together, we’ll continue to dream bigger, serve better, and expand our reach.
Thank You for Joining Us
Thank you for standing with us in this journey. Your unwavering support and belief in our mission fuel everything we do. Together, we are building a community where recovery is celebrated, resilience is nurtured, and lives are transformed.
With deepest gratitude,
Gerald Lott
Executive Director
Sauk Valley Voices of Recovery
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