Steps of Hope: The DC Walk 4 ReCovery Newsletter

Welcome to the first edition of Steps of Hope, your bi-weekly source for news, inspiration, and the incredible journeys of transformation within our community. At the DC Walk 4 ReCovery, we believe that every step taken—no matter how big or small—brings us closer to healing, strength, and renewed hope.

Through this newsletter, we’ll keep you connected to everything that’s happening, including important dates, registration information, volunteer opportunities, and more. You’ll also hear inspiring stories, get updates on upcoming events, and learn about the powerful work being done to support recovery.

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Have a Story to Share?

If you have a personal story of resilience or would like to nominate someone whose journey can inspire others, we’d love to hear from you! Please reach out to Jasmine Love, Editor-in-Chief.

Email: dcwalk4recovery@gmail.com

The number “4” in DC Walk 4 ReCovery  has symbolic meaning tied to the mission of the event, representing key aspects of the initiative or its core values. While the exact significance can vary depending on the intent behind the name, here are a few potential interpretations:

1. FOUR PILLARS OF RECOVERY

The “4” could symbolize the four key pillars or aspects of recovery that the event aims to address. For example, these are:

• Awareness – Raising awareness of addiction and mental health challenges
• Education – Providing education on co-occurring disorders
• Hope – Inspiring hope in individuals on their recovery journey
• Support – Offering resources and community support for long-term healing

2. FOUR STAGES OF RECOVERY

Another possibility is that the “4” refers to the four stages of recovery, often identified as:

• Pre-contemplation – Not yet acknowledging the need for change
• Contemplation – Recognizing the need for change but not yet taking action
• Action – Actively working on change through treatment or recovery
• Maintenance – Maintaining recovery and avoiding relapse

3. INCLUSIVITY OF FOUR KEY GROUPS

It does symbolize the involvement of four key groups or communities coming together for the event, such as:

• Individuals in recovery
• Family members and friends
• Healthcare and support professionals
• Advocates and allies

4. SYMBOLIZING UNITY AND BALANCE

The number 4 is often associated with balance, stability, and foundation (think of the four corners of a square or the four seasons). It is a representation of the foundational support needed for successful recovery, or the balance between different aspects of well-being—mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health—that are crucial for overcoming addiction and mental health that are known as Co-Occorring Disorders. 

Join Us as we walk to bring awareness, education, hope and solutions to the National Mall 4/2025