The MOAR You Know – Summer 2026
Newsletter from the Massachusetts Organization for Addiction Recovery
In This Issue
- A Note from Noel Sierra
- Recap: Statewide Policy Forums
- Recovery Month Planning Meetings
- Public Policy Updates
- Out in the Community
- Our New Website
- MOAR Trainings
A Note from Noel Sierra, MOAR Executive Director
Hello to all MOAR members,
As summer arrives, we want to wish everyone a season filled with joy, connection, and recovery. This is a wonderful time of year to enjoy cookouts, family gatherings, outdoor activities, community events, and all the opportunities that come with longer days and warmer weather.
While you’re making memories and spending time with loved ones and friends, remember to take care of yourself. Summer heat can be intense, so be mindful to stay hydrated, wear appropriate clothing, and take breaks when needed. Taking care of your physical health is an important part of supporting your recovery and overall well-being.
Summer can also be a time when some people feel isolated, overwhelmed, or challenged by social situations. That’s why it’s important to look out for one another. Reach out to friends, family members, neighbors, and others in your recovery community. A simple phone call, text message, or conversation can make a meaningful difference in someone’s day.
Take a moment to check in and ask, “How are you doing?” Sometimes knowing that someone cares is exactly what a person needs to stay connected and supported.
Our recovery community has always been strongest when we stand together, support one another, and share hope. As we enjoy the summer season, let’s continue to build those connections and strengthen our community.
Each One, Reach One.
Together, we can make sure no one has to walk their recovery journey alone. Wishing you a safe, healthy, and enjoyable summer!
In Recovery and Community,
Noel Sierra
Executive Director
Recap: Statewide Policy Forums
Throughout the Spring and early Summer, MOAR hosted numerous regional policy forums across Massachusetts. These events brought together advocates, legislators, and community members in support of recovery-focused public policy.
At our Boston Policy Forum, State Senator John Keenan spoke about his bill S.2863 An Act regarding the instruction of lifesaving skills in schools, which would integrate education about opioid use disorder into the high school curriculum.
Sunshine Scotty facilitated his MetroWest Forum at Anchored in Recovery in Framingham. What a turn out! Special thank you to Rep. Kate Donaghue and Senate President Spilka’s staff for addressing the audience!
Julie Bunch’s Northeast Forum was made up of a panel of speakers: Hannah Martuscello (MA Alcohol Policy Coalition), Grace Sullivan (MYPiR), Leah Randolph (Commonwealth Mental Health & Wellness Center), Deirdre Calvert, Director, Bureau of Substance Addiction Services), Paul Hammersley (Malden Overcoming Addiction), and Hannah Koepper (MOAR).
Katie Shamaly-Criasia hosted her Southeast Forum in Taunton and featured speakers on CORI Reform, Treatment not Incarceration, OUD education for youth, and other important policies. Thank you to Senator Dooner’s office for attending!
Our Central MA Forum featured Senator Robyn Kennedy (pictured above), Worcester Mayor Joe Petty, Edwin Suarez, the Miracle Mamas, Jaime Davis, Jason Parsekian, and Project Weber/Renew!
Mallika Iyer facilitated a mini forum at the Roxbury Branch of the Boston Public Library and featured Dr. David Jernigan from Boston University’s School of Public Health who spoke on S.2029 An Act relative to the fair taxation of alcoholic beverages.
MOAR’s Recovery Month Planning Meetings
Interested in getting more involved? Want to have a say in the programming of our Recovery Month Celebration Day? Join our planning meetings – every other Monday evening at 6PM on Zoom.
Holiday Celebration Planning Meeting Link
Public Policy Updates
S.1114/H.1811: An Act requiring clean slate automated record sealing
Clean Slate Massachusetts continues to educate regarding this legislation, which would automate the sealing of eligible criminal records and help reduce barriers to employment, housing, and other opportunities.
As the Massachusetts legislative session approaches its conclusion on July 31, advocates and community members have opportunities to engage with legislators about issues they care about, including Clean Slate.
Advocacy Opportunity:
June 24 at 1:00 PM
Massachusetts State House, Boston
Clean Slate Massachusetts will be at the State House meeting with legislators and staff to discuss the importance of automated CORI sealing. Individuals interested in learning more about the issue or participating in advocacy efforts are welcome to attend.
Out in the Community
Executive Director Noel Sierra spoke about stigma and bias at the Power of Partnership Cape Cod and Island Regional Forum. Our regional coordinator have since presenting the same training at regional forums aimed at strengthening care for residents with SUD in long term care.
Our team participated in the Joint Meeting of Youth Prevention, Recovery, and Treatment in Baltimore, MD! Our Assistant Program Director Haley Barbieri delivered a keynote address alongside Chris Savage, REC Program Director, and Paul Smith, MyPiR Program Director, highlighting the remarkable story of the MyPiR program’s development and its significant impact on the community.
Hannah Koepper and Sunshine Scotty presented an Advocacy 101 training at BMC’s Together for Hope Conference.
Natick 180 honored Sunshine Scotty with the Community Champion Award! Very well deserved!
MOAR’s New Website!
Check out our newly revamped website! We’re beyond excited to finally share this fresh new look that’s all about making your recovery journey accessible and empowering as possible.
MOAR Trainings
MOAR offers two important trainings aimed at helping individuals use their voices for productive change!
Recovery Messaging
This training helps individuals understand the impact of stigma and language on recovery. We can assist you in identifying key elements of recovery messages. Ultimately, attendees will be able to craft and deliver their own positive recovery messages.
Advocacy 101
This training helps individuals understand how public policies and laws are developed and changed. Additionally, the training covers the state budget process. Finally, we will demonstrate strategies and best practices for effective visits/calls with your legislators.
These trainings are put on by our awesome team of regional coordinators and can run anywhere between 45-90 minutes each.
Please reach out via phone (617-423-6627), or email (info@moar-recovery.org) if you are interested in scheduling a training or would like to learn more!
