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What a night! The annual Malden Overcoming Addiction (MOA) comedy fundraiser was a huge success, drawing more than 300 guests to the Irish American Hall, where food, raffles, testimonies and laughs sent everyone home singing the praises of the recovery work happening in Malden. The night was full of surprises! The comedian lineup was stellar – organized by the affable and loveable Dave Russo. As the Master of Ceremonies, he delivered some great mini sets as he introduced Malden’s own Paul Gilligan and Anthony Scibelli, among others. As usual, they delivered! The crowd erupted when Russo brought on the comedic legend Lenny Clarke. In fitting fashion three of the comedians spoke of their own sobriety dates, which had a big impact on the crowd at hand.
The evening opened with inspiring words from Mayor Gary Christenson, who was followed by Police Chief Glen Cronin and Ward 5 Councillor Barbara Murphy. All three currently sit on Malden’s Opioid Task Force. Their leadership and their collective voices around the recovery work happening in Malden with MOA at the center resonated with many.
MOA President Paul Hammersley spoke of his own personal struggles and triumphs, crediting some of the connections he made along the way with his recovery success. He specifically called out Mayor Christenson for his unconditional support. Two young people in recovery spoke next, each mentioning Malden Overcoming Addiction and coach PJ Bell as important to their ongoing journey in recovery.
The night ended in fitting fashion with the 50/50 raffle drawing donated back to the organization by the winner, a longtime friend of MOA icon Dom DiSario, who passed away two years ago, and is credited with helping to shape the vision of MOA.
Malden Overcoming Addiction would like to thank all of their supporters and volunteers. The organization would simply not exist without the generosity and kindness exhibited by the many people in attendance, and those involved with our year-round activities.
If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about recovery support, please visit
our website at https://www.maldenovercomingaddiction.com.
