Gratitude for both Old and New.
As the new Executive Director at The Fourth D Club, I feel incredibly fortunate. It's truly inspiring to be surrounded by a community dedicated to their spiritual journey of recovery. Witnessing the process of others' 12-step work is a profound gift; my gratitude for where I spend my weekdays is immense.
One clear sign of our community's growth is the increasing attendance at many meetings. We're thrilled to offer a safe and supportive space for everyone on their recovery path. And recent renovations, thanks to our big-hearted community members, have made our space better than ever. We’ve added a new meeting space, and have started preparing for our next goal, to convert one of our rooms into a bookstore, which will offer 12 step literature and some great Fourth D schwag. It’s a work in progress, so stay tuned!
The Fourth D recently reached out to the Missoula community with our Annual Ask letter. Donations help us maintain our meeting space, cover essential costs, and continue providing a safe haven for those on their recovery journey. And while this is important, our goal is also to help educate the community about the heavy stigma addiction carries. Misinformation and negative judgment create unnecessary barriers for those seeking help. At the Fourth D Club, we offer not only a path to recovery but also a supportive community, because we cannot do this work alone.
If you haven't already, please consider donating your time or money to the Fourth D. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant difference.
Thank you to everyone who showed up to the holiday party! We had a fantastic time celebrating the holiday season and the Fourth D’s 15 year anniversary with friends, family, and fellow community members. The white elephant gift exchange was a riot (as it should be!). For whatever reason, everyone became fixated on getting their hands on one gift in particular: a metal cat standing on its hind legs and holding a serving tray. We are many things, but we certainly are never glum.
This New Year's Eve, the Fourth D Club is collaborating with other Missoula sober community organizations and Missoula Arts! to host a substance-free, dance-filled, family-friendly event. There will be tasty snacks! Your children will be entertained with activities! A DJ will be playing all your jams! And did I mention craft mocktails? Craft mocktails! Come as you are and bring in the new year by joyfully dancing your heart out!
The event starts at 7 pm and is held at the First United Methodist Church on Main Street, across from the old library. It ends shortly after midnight (ahem, for those who can stay up that late).
What's Next?
A lot! Including free workshops offered by the club to anyone in recovery. "Writing in Recovery" is a new workshop offered to those seeking a safe, shared space to hone their writing skills. It meets at the club on Tuesdays at 3:30 pm. Some work on their steps, while others are here to grow spiritually through the creative process. All are welcome, but space is limited. Please email me at suzanne@4thdmissoula.org if you're interested or have suggestions for other 12-step related workshops. Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram or check out our lovely new website for updates.
I wish you all immense love and healing in the new year-
Suzanne Garcia Pino