When participants in the annual Strides for Sobriety 5K lace up their sneakers, they do so
Photo courtesy of Strides for Sobriety
From left to right: Mike Coyle, Ramona Penland-Coyle, Laurie Penland, Jon Coyle and Dr. Georgiann Diniaco
with the next generation’s well-being in mind.
Based in Dublin and expanding to New Albany, Strides for Sobriety has worked to maximize the exposure to options for local teens battling alcohol and substance abuse since the organization’s February 2014 incorporation.
“Our goal is to provide financing for children who would never be able to receive treatment if it weren’t for someone subsidizing the costs,” says Ramona Penland-Coyle, founder of the organization.
Penland-Coyle was inspired to create the charity while her son, Michael, was in treatment.
“The drive truly started as we watched kids get turned away at centers,” she says. “Insurance would only pay for the costs if the teenagers showed signs of being suicidal. Once that passed, they were on their own if they couldn’t cover costs. Michael would have dinner with a person one night and they would be gone the next. One friend he developed a relationship with ended up relapsing and passing away. That’s when we realized we had to do something.”
Founders understand the limitations of the group, which is why they aim solely to provide the
Photo courtesy of Strides for Sobriety
necessary tools for teenagers to pursue sobriety on their own.
“We’re here to give them the avenue and the education,” Penland-Coyle says. “They have to make the decision. It cannot be forced.”
Strides for Sobriety has its largest fundraiser 5K during the third week of April. However, since the group has grown, it has added more events throughout the year. The Fall Equinox 108 Sun Salute fundraiser will take place 7-9 p.m. Sept. 22 at the Dublin Nutrition Club.
For more information about the organization, upcoming events and how to get involved, visit www.stridesforsobriety.com.
Stephan Reed is a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at ssole@cityscenemediagroup.com.
