Last June, the Methuen-based Merrimack Valley Prevention and Substance Abuse Project (MVPASAP) marked its 10th anniversary during a celebration at Lenzi’s in Dracut.
MVPASAP was co-founded by Phil Lahey, a devoted father and former city councilor, whose daughter struggled with substance abuse. He and wife Fran felt resources and support were very limited for not only addicts, but also for their families, and that led him to create MVPASAP. Over time, the nonprofit expanded to offer support groups and vast resources as well as radio and TV shows, podcasts and educational outreach at area schools. Lahey died July 22, 2024 at age 76.
Dr. Jennifer Burns, MVPASAP’s other co-founder, gave the keynote speech, harking back to the organization’s start.
Phil’s counterpart, Cole Welch Caffrey, is now MVASAP’s executive director.
At the anniversary party, she thanked the nonprofit’s Board of Directors, sponsors, supporters and volunteers.
“To the original pioneers, thank you for your courage and vision,” Welch Caffrey said. “Over a decade ago, you lit a spark that became a movement – to break the stigma of substance-use disorder and replace it with compassion, action and hope.
“What a tribute to our dear friend and founder, Phil Lahey,” she continued. “His legacy lives on in every conversation, every scholarship awarded, every event we host, and every person we reach! Phil always said, ‘If there is breath, there is hope.’ May we continue to carry that torch and bring hope to those who need it most.”
For more info, visit mvpasap.com.
Guests listened to stories of the founding of MVPASAP and the reach and success it has had over the past decade helping local people fight substance abuse.
