September is National Recovery Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the strength, courage, and resilience of individuals in recovery. This year, the Second Judicial District Specialty Courts proudly joined the community in honoring this important month through a series of impactful events and initiatives.
On September 18, the Adult Drug Court hosted an in-person graduation ceremony, celebrating the accomplishments of 15 participants who successfully completed the intensive program. These graduates demonstrated unwavering commitment to their recovery, and the event served as a powerful reminder that sustained change is possible with support, structure, and perseverance.
The following day, September 19, Specialty Court Coordinators participated in the 18th Annual Stand Down event, hosted by the VA Sierra Nevada Health Care System (VASNHCS) in collaboration with local partners. This event provided essential services—including medical care, housing assistance, and cold-weather gear—to hundreds of homeless and at-risk veterans, reaffirming our community’s dedication to those who have served.
Capping off the month, Specialty Court staff and participants joined Nevada’s Recovery and Prevention’s
2025 R5k Run/Walk and Recovery Celebration (NRAP 5K) on September 27, standing alongside fellow advocates and community members in a show of solidarity and support for those on the path to recovery.
Specialty Courts provide innovative and effective alternatives to traditional sentencing by engaging eligible defendants in intensive, evidence-based, court-supervised treatment programs. This holistic approach goes beyond simply treating substance use disorders. Programs require participants to engage in:
- Individual and group substance abuse counseling
- Mental health counseling (based on individual needs)
- Random drug and alcohol testing
- Probation supervision
- Collaborative case management
- Regular court status checks
These coordinated efforts improve outcomes in education, employment, housing, and financial stability, while also promoting family reunification, reducing foster care placements, and increasing the rate of mothers with substance use disorders delivering drug-free babies.
Operated by a dedicated multidisciplinary team—including a judge, defense and prosecution counsel, court officers, treatment providers, probation officers, and drug testing staff—Specialty Courts provide effective treatment and support that transform lives, protect public safety, and save taxpayer dollars.
“The Second Judicial District Court remains committed to advancing justice innovations that support recovery and reintegration. By fostering collaboration between the court system, treatment providers, and the community, we are helping to ensure that individuals receive the comprehensive care they need to rebuild their lives.”
— Brooke Howard, Specialty Court Programs Manager
Together, we can make #RecoveryREAL and continue to support National Recovery Month’s mission to promote hope and healing for all.
For more information about Specialty Courts and how to apply, visit:
🔗 https://www.washoecourts.com/SpecialtyCourts
