Liberation Programs’ celebrated its fifth annual Spirit of Hope benefit dinner on Thursday, May 10 with over 200 guests.  Five honorees were recognized for the key roles they played in shaping the history of Liberation Programs as well as helping to make their communities a better place: Maureen Hughes of New Canaan, Emile Jacques and Alice Melly of Greenwich, and Ed Pollak and Former State Representative Christel Truglia of Stamford.

Bill Mitchell, Vice Chair of Mitchell’s Family of Stores, Westport, was the guest speaker who not only shared his own personal struggles but also encouraged continued community support for Liberation Programs.  Governor Dannel Malloy was on hand to commend the work of the organization and recognize the commitment the five honorees have made toward its continued success.  The evening’s proceeds of $45,000 will help provide critical support services including housing and access to physical and mental health services for pregnant women and mothers working to overcome substance abuse disorders.

Event co-chairs were Elizabeth Needham and Katrina Bischoff and sponsors included:   Platinum: Elizabeth Needham and Peter Mark; Gold: Vicki & David Craver; Silver: Cohen and Wolf P.C., eBenefits Group Northeast LLC, Maureen Hughes, Melissa & Alan Mathis, Alice Melly, Pitney Bowes Inc., Marianne & Ed Pollak.

Liberation Programs, Inc. (LPI) is a non-profit, community-based organization dedicated to providing substance abuse prevention and treatment programs in Fairfield County. Its mission is to empower people and their families to be free of the disease of addiction by providing targeted solutions that restore lives and strengthen the community.   For more information, visit www.liberationprograms.org.