The Bridge to Recovery draws 130-plus alumni to Kentucky homecoming

The Bridge to Recovery hosted more than 130 alumni and guests from two countries and 17 states at its annual homecoming Oct. 16-18 in Bowling Green, Kentucky. The gathering highlighted the program’s long-term alumni network, with workshops, community activities and a ceremony honoring two retiring staff members.

Why it matters: - The annual Alumni Homecoming shows how The Bridge to Recovery extends beyond its residential program and into long-term peer support, community ties and ongoing healing. - The turnout from two countries and more than 17 states points to a wide alumni network built around the Kentucky-based mental health program.

What happened: - The Bridge to Recovery hosted its Annual Alumni Homecoming Oct. 16-18, 2026, on its campus in Bowling Green, Kentucky. - More than 130 people attended from two countries and over 17 states. - The weekend centered on connection, reflection and renewed hope for alumni of the residential mental health program.

The details: - The event included inner child connection work, where participants explored ways to better understand younger parts of themselves. - Four guided small-group conversations gave attendees a chance to share and reflect before regrouping as a larger community. - A drum circle and bonfire brought alumni together to reflect on shared experiences and relationships. - The homecoming also included workshops and activities that let participants shape their own experience while building community. - A special ceremony honored two longtime staff members, Debra Cromwell and Larry Cline. - Cromwell retired after 15 years as a counselor. - Cline retired from maintenance. - The ceremony recognized both employees for their dedication, contributions and lasting impact on The Bridge and the people it serves.

Between the lines: - The homecoming is part of a broader effort to keep alumni connected after treatment ends, reinforcing that recovery support does not stop when the residential stay ends. - The event’s structure suggests The Bridge to Recovery is leaning on peer connection and shared experience as part of its care model.

What's next: - The Bridge to Recovery is expected to continue the annual homecoming as a standing tradition for alumni connection and reflection. - The organization will keep offering its residential workshop and trauma healing retreat in Kentucky for people seeking help with family-of-origin trauma, codependency and mental health struggles.

The bottom line: - The 2026 homecoming doubled as a reunion and a reminder that The Bridge to Recovery’s support network remains active long after alumni leave campus.