Annual event also spotlights graduate’s journey from addiction to recovery, demonstrating the need and impact of the program
FRANKLIN, Tennessee – Oct. 12, 2026 – The 21st District Recovery Court (Recovery Court) Board of Directors will host its 16th Annual Community Luncheon on Monday, Oct. 26, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Williamson County Enrichment Center, 110 Everbright Ave. in Franklin.
The luncheon supports Recovery Court’s alternative sentencing program in the 21st Judicial District. Recovery Court gives local nonviolent offenders with substance use disorders the opportunity to complete an intensive, two-year, court-supervised recovery program instead of, or in addition to, traditional sentences.
“We currently have 40 participants, with two graduating this month, and additional individuals waiting to enter the program,” said Program Director Connie Martin. “Many arrive with immediate needs for basics like food and gas before other assistance is in place. Community support helps us meet those needs and also keeps our graduates connected through alumni gatherings that are so important to long-term recovery.”
The luncheon will also recognize Amy Gray and Tim Richards with the Gayle Moyer Harris Award, named in honor of one of Recovery Court’s founders and presented for exceptional commitment to the community. Gray, founder of Gray Public Relations, has provided pro bono public relations counsel and volunteered with Recovery Court since 2012, including six years on its Board of Directors. She led the organization’s rebrand from Drug Court to Recovery Court and helped establish signature fundraisers, including the Eat the Street Food Truck Festival and Stories Behind the Songs.
“Since 2012, Amy has put her time, energy, and heart into overseeing the growth of the 21st Recovery Court. For over a decade, she has faithfully served the 21st District Recovery Court as pro bono public relations counsel and volunteer, including six years on its board of directors. From helping lead the rebrand from Drug Court to Recovery Court to creating signature fundraisers like the Eat the Streets Food Truck Festival and the annual Stories Behind the Songs Singer-Songwriter event,” said Board President, Eric Larsen. “Amy has helped raise awareness and strengthen the mission of Recovery Court. Amy’s commitment reflects what Recovery Court is all about: service, compassion, and the belief that every person deserves an opportunity to recover and thrive. We are incredibly grateful for Amy and her lasting impact and proud to honor her with the Gayle Moyer Harris Award.”
Richards, founder of Let It Shine Gymnastics, served on the board for six years and continues to volunteer. His contributions include keeping the program’s food pantry stocked, assisting participants and helping oversee renovation of the organization’s new property.
“Tim is the kind of person who doesn’t simply serve on a board- he serves wherever he is needed,” continued Larsen. “For six years, Tim faithfully gave his time and leadership to Recovery Court, and even after his term has come to an end, he continues to serve. Whether it’s making sure our food pantry is stocked, lending a hand to those in recovery, or helping oversee the renovation of our new property, Tim continues to show up and get to work. His commitment is a true reflection of what recovery court is all about: service, compassion, and giving people the opportunity to build a better life. We are incredibly grateful for Tim and the example he continues to set for all of us.”
“And we are deeply grateful for the continued support of so many members of our community. Recovery Court simply could not function without these generous financial contributions, and the success of our participants shows the difference that support makes in Williamson County. As we look ahead to serving even more participants, we have begun construction on the Recovery Lodge, a new facility that will expand our ability to provide the resources and support participants need to succeed. An investment in the growth of Recovery Court is an investment in the future of Williamson County and in the individuals and families who call our community home.”
Recovery Court was established in 2002 under a three-year startup grant from the U.S. Department of Justice and today is funded through grants, private donations, participant fees and a portion of statutory court costs paid by criminal offenders. It receives no taxpayer funding from the counties it serves. Since 2004, nearly 400 participants have graduated from the two-year program.
The luncheon is free and open to the public, though reservations are encouraged. For more information, visit https://21districtrecoverycourt.org or call 615.595.7868. Questions may also be directed to jessica.shipp@21stdc.org.
The luncheon is supported by community sponsors. Sponsorship levels range from $250 for Friends of Recovery Court to $3,500 for presenting sponsorships. For sponsorship information, contact Connie Martin at connie.martin@21stdc.org.
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About 21st District Recovery Court
The 21st District Recovery Court serves Williamson County. Program participants are nonviolent offenders with a history of chemical dependency who take part in a highly supervised, two-year program providing treatment, supervision and support. The program works with law enforcement and the courts to help participants build productive lives while reducing criminal activity and providing a cost-effective alternative to incarceration. Most importantly, recovery can help restore participants’ lives and families to a safe and positive environment. For more information, visit 21stdc.org or call 615.595.7868.
