STROUDSBURG, MONROE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — Every year, the Pocono Mountains Community Fundraiser supports non-profits doing life-changing work in Monroe County. Now in its 22nd year, the event has raised more than $3,000,000 for our neighbors in need, and this year, four organizations were selected to receive funding.
Brianna Strunk with the Pocono Television Network introduces us to the fourth recipient.
Scott Robinson didn't have an easy childhood. He lost his parents at a young age, and his siblings died from addiction. Scott himself fell into addiction and sought help when he was just 11 years old.
"I had a lot of trauma and was in fight or flight mode for many years," Scott said.
31 years later, Scott needed help again and recently went through in-person treatment. This time, he did it for his kids and grandkids.
"I couldn't do right by them if I didn't do right by myself first, and it all started with self-love and self-care," Scott continued.
Scott continued his recovery in the real world and found community at Northbound & Co. in Snydersville.
Finding valuable resources through metamorphosis program
The non-profit provides free substance abuse and mental health services, including peer support groups, life skills workshops, yoga and artistic wellness, and transportation to and from important appointments that support long-term recovery.
"We don't ask you what you got, we don't ask you where you came from. We don't ask you for anything. We just want to make sure you get what you need, and if we don't have it, that we're able to connect you to somewhere so you can get what you're looking for," Northbound & Co. Vice President Joe Mattioli stated.
There are no barriers to getting help. Anyone can walk through these doors and access services. You don't need a referral, insurance, or to be leaving a treatment facility.
The Northbound staff were all touched by recovery in some way themselves. Mattioli is celebrating 13 years of continuous sobriety.
"We want people to know we made it. We want people to know there's hope for them, too," Mattioli continued.
Today, Scott is committed to staying sober thanks to the compass keeping him northbound.
"Northbound helped me in many ways, more than I could ever thank them for," Scott added.
With funding from this year's Pocono Mountains community fundraiser, Northbound and company will continue helping clients with transportation needs.
28/22 News is a proud sponsor of the 22nd Annual Pocono Mountains Community Fundraiser being held on Wednesday at Mount Airy Casino Resort.
28/22 News Evening Anchor Candice Kelly has the honor, once again, to emcee this year’s big event. That’s when we’ll find out just how much each organization is receiving.
