    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 124, 111th Congress, 2nd Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    PROCLAMATION 8550--AUG. 31, 2010

    Proclamation 8550 of August 31, 2010
    National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, 2010
    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    Each day brings new opportunities for personal growth, renewal, and
    transformation to millions of Americans who have chosen to forge a path
    toward recovery from addiction to drugs or alcohol. While addic-

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    tion can destroy self-confidence, family ties, and friendships, recovery
    can restore the promise of a brighter tomorrow. During National Alcohol
    and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, we express support for those living
    healthy and productive lives in long-term recovery, we applaud those
    working to help struggling Americans break the cycle of abuse, and we
    encourage those in need to seek help.
    This year's theme, ``Join the Voices for Recovery: Now More Than
    Ever!,'' calls us to an urgent mission--to save lives from the hazards
    of addiction. As we make quality and affordable health care more
    accessible to all Americans, we also resolve to build a healthier Nation
    by increasing access to treatment and recovery programs in our health
    care system. To help achieve this goal, the Affordable Care Act supports
    services available to address addiction. Together, we can reduce the
    harmful consequences of untreated addiction, such as violence, failure
    in school, job loss, child abuse, crimes, and death. I encourage all
    Americans to visit RecoveryMonth.gov for more resources and information.
    The journey to recovery requires great fortitude and a supportive
    network. As we celebrate National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery
    Month, we also express our appreciation for the family members, mutual
    aid groups, peer support programs, health professionals, and community
    leaders that provide compassion, care, and hope. Across America, we must
    spread the word that substance abuse is preventable, that addiction is
    treatable, and that recovery is possible.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
    America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
    the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 2010 as
    National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month. I call upon all
    Americans to observe this month with appropriate programs, ceremonies,
    and activities, and to celebrate the lives freed from addiction to
    illicit drugs, alcohol, or prescription medications.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of
    August, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the
    Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
    fifth.
    BARACK OBAMA