Laois addiction recovery project celebrates big milestone

An addiction recovery project in Laois is celebrating its first anniversary this year, marking a year of supporting individuals, families, and the wider community impacted by addiction and recovery.

Since launching in October 2024, The Arc Project has grown into a welcoming, peer-led space where people can connect, share their experiences, and build hope together. Through their recovery cafés, creative workshops, and peer meetings, the aim is to break stigma, strengthen community ties, and provide meaningful pathways to wellbeing.

The Arc Project, based in Portlaoise, said this milestone would not have been possible without the incredible support of the local community and the generous backing of Laois Partnership, whose continued collaboration has helped the project grow and reach more people. 

"Importantly, The Arc Project is 100% voluntary – all of our work is led by trained facilitators and dedicated volunteers with lived experience of addiction and recovery, giving the project its unique heart and authenticity," they said. Over the past 12 months, they have: Hosted regular recovery cafés – safe, relaxed spaces for open conversations, connection, and peer support. Facilitated Family Recovery meetings led by trained facilitators and dedicated volunteers with lived experience of addiction and recovery. Built strong local relationships to connect people with the right supports and resources when they need them most. Planned the upcoming Recovery Buddy Programme – launching in 2026 – to connect people with trained peers who can walk alongside them in their recovery journey.

"At the heart of The Arc Project’s approach is a simple belief: we are not reinventing the wheel; we are joining the dots. By working alongside existing services and harnessing the power of community connection, we aim to make recovery more accessible and supported for everyone."

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To celebrate this first anniversary and look ahead to the future, The Arc Project is hosting an Open Meeting on Monday, October 13 at 7.15 p.m at Laois Partnership Building (Prefab, Room 4). The evening will include reflections on our first year, updates on upcoming projects, and an opportunity to connect with our facilitators, volunteers, and supporters.

"This past year has shown us the incredible strength that comes from people supporting each other," said Michelle Robertson and David Delaney (Founders). 

"We are deeply grateful to everyone who has walked this journey with us – from our volunteers and participants to Laois Partnership and the wider community. This anniversary is a celebration of what we’ve built together and a chance to look forward to the exciting developments ahead.

"Everyone is welcome – whether you’ve been involved from the start, dropped into a recovery café, or are simply curious about what we do, we’d love to see you there. For more information, visit www.thearcproject.ie."