GREENFIELD — Recovering from a substance abuse disorder is a journey that takes people on many different paths. To recognize that journey and the various resources that are available to help people during National Recovery Month, The RECOVER Project organized two events.

The first, a Recovery Celebration, was held at Energy Park on Friday, Sept. 20. The second, an exhibit called “The Art of Recovery,” will have a reception at The LAVA Center, 324 Main St., from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 27.

The RECOVER Project is a peer-led recovery center at 68 Federal St. for people struggling with addiction. Director Abbi Cushing explained that the center offers numerous weekly programs ranging from support groups to activities such as art, yoga and games. These programs are led by volunteers who reached sobriety. The RECOVER Project also offers individual peer recovery coaching and special events, such as last week’s celebration at Energy Park.

“We’re a community trying to create a safe space for each other to grow in our recovery,” Cushing explained. “It’s a different experience for everyone who comes in.”

September is National Recovery Month. Cushing said the occasion celebrates the recovery community and promotes the treatments and resources available.

“It’s just a time for us to get together and celebrate our community,” said Sarah Rashad, a peer support coach with The RECOVER Project.

Friday’s Recovery Celebration included music, yard games, hot dogs, hamburgers and cake. Volunteers, peer leaders and participants danced and socialized throughout the afternoon.

“I’m 62 years old and I’ve never in my entire life felt like I belonged anywhere until I came here,” said participant Richard Connor, who staffed the grill. “I love the people here with The RECOVER Project. It saved me.”

Connor said he moved to Greenfield just over eight months ago from Boston and he has found the community to be very welcoming and helpful in his recovery journey.

While National Recovery Month is nearing its end, The RECOVER Project has more events in store. The second annual art show is now on display at The LAVA Center.

The exhibit, “The Art of Recovery,” features art made by members of The RECOVER Project’s weekly group, The Art Guild. The group meets on Mondays and provides participants with a space to explore art as a way to share their thoughts and feelings about their recovery journey.

A reception will be held at The LAVA Center, 324 Main St., from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 27. All are invited to peruse the art and meet the artists. Light refreshments will be served. The exhibit will be on display through October.

Reach Madison Schofield at 413-930-4579 or mschofield@recorder.com.