I’m Belle Morey — a woman in long-term recovery from methamphetamine, a licensed Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor, a mom, a wife, and the founder of Progress Is Progress LLC. Ten years ago, I was broken, scared, and alone in my addiction. I didn’t have a safe space to land. I didn’t have people who got it without judgment. I had to claw my way forward one painful millimeter at a time, often wondering if I’d ever keep my kids or build a life that mattered.
That pain is exactly why Real Talk Recovery: Progress in the Northwoods exists.
On Saturday, November 21, 2026, at the Lake of the Torches Resort Casino Conference Center in Lac du Flambeau, we’re opening the doors to a completely FREE, full-day community event for anyone touched by addiction — people in recovery, those still struggling, family members exhausted from watching loved ones hurt, people who’ve lost someone, professionals, and community members who just want to help.
This isn’t another stiff conference with perfect PowerPoints. This is real talk: raw stories, brain science that actually explains why willpower isn’t enough, family healing circles, panels on stigma in rural and tribal communities, relapse and resilience, and practical tools you can use the next day. We’ve got Tom Farley delivering the keynote, Senator Jesse James and a powerhouse panel on “Real Recovery in the Northwoods,” breakout sessions, a community feast, Youth Drum opening, Community Art Wall, and a sacred Cleansing & Reflection Room for smudging, grounding, and quiet support.
Why this event? Why now? Why free?
Because I know what it feels like to need help and feel like the world is closed off to you. Too many of us in the Northwoods — especially in rural and tribal communities — face barriers: shame, distance, cost, judgment, and systems that don’t fit real lives. I became a counselor to be the person I wish I had early on. This event is me (and so many others) giving that back to our community.
Making it free isn’t just nice — it’s necessary. We don’t want anyone turned away because they’re broke, ashamed, or just starting the fight. Progress is progress, whether it’s a mile or a millimeter. Everyone deserves a seat at this table.
The journey to get here has been real.
I’ve spent months reaching out, building partnerships, pouring my heart into proposals, and yes — asking for help. The Lac du Flambeau Tribe stepped up huge with a $1,500 donation toward the venue. That gift told me we’re on the right path. The event is officially happening. But to make it powerful, memorable, and the foundation for something annual — something that can travel the state and inspire other communities — we still need the wider community to show up.
We’re looking for donations and contributions because creating something this big and barrier-free costs money: printing materials, food for the feast, art supplies, scholarships for gas and travel, swag and resources, and all the little things that make people feel truly welcomed and supported. Every dollar goes straight into this day and the ripple effect it creates.
This is where you come in.
I’m asking — from my heart — for your help to make this vision real:
Donate what you can through our GoFundMe. Whether it’s $10, $25, or more, it moves the needle and tells someone struggling that they’re not alone. https://gofund.me/ac565e077
Contribute supplies, printing, or skills — fill out our quick collaboration form so we can coordinate exactly what’s needed. https://forms.gle/mDvLJM16Ro68XW439
Attend — register today so we can plan for you. Bring yourself exactly as you are. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1993505330106?aff=oddtdtcreator
Share this post far and wide — on your socials, in your groups, with your family, coworkers, churches, tribal organizations, and beyond. Tag people who need hope or can help. Northern Wisconsin and far beyond.
If you’re in recovery, you know one person’s support can change everything. If you love someone battling addiction, you know how heavy that worry is. If you’ve lost someone, you know the ache and the wish that things could have been different.
This event is for all of us. It’s proof that community can rise up and create something beautiful out of pain. It’s me choosing to turn my story into service, and it’s an invitation for you to be part of that.
Progress isn’t perfect. It’s messy, brave, and worth fighting for. Let’s build something that matters — together.
Come as you are. Leave stronger, more connected, and full of hope.
With deep gratitude and real hope,
Belinda “Belle” Morey, BS, CSAC
Founder, Progress Is Progress LLC
715-892-5310 | belle.morey@progressisprogressllc.com
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