Annual community event supports substance use prevention, affordable treatment, and recovery
EVANSTON, IL — September 25, 2026 — On October 4, the community will come together to walk, connect, and make a difference at Step Up for Recovery, PEER Services’ annual fundraising walk and community celebration. The event brings people together to support substance use prevention and affordable treatment, celebrate recovery, and help break the stigma surrounding addiction.
The event will take place from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Evanston Lakefront and will feature a half-mile walk, music, refreshments, face painting, balloon animals, a raffle, and a Community Wellness Fair.
“Step Up is a wonderful event that brings the community together in support of people affected by substance use and addiction,” said Jimmy, a longtime Step Up participant and PEER Services client. “Some people walk to support a friend or loved one, while others walk to support their neighbors. Everyone comes together to make a difference.”
Supporting Prevention and Treatment
For over 50 years, PEER Services has provided community-based substance use prevention and affordable treatment for youth and adults in Chicago and the North and Northwest suburbs.
Funds raised through Step Up help sustain PEER’s prevention programs in schools and communities, as well as early intervention and outpatient treatment services for adolescents, adults, and families. PEER provides compassionate, evidence-based services regardless of income or insurance status.
“Cost should never be a barrier to treatment,” said Noy Frial-Lopez, Chief Executive Officer of PEER Services. “Many people who turn to PEER are uninsured or rely on Medicaid, which does not cover the full cost of their care. Donations help close that gap. When local donors support Step Up, they are helping sustain affordable care right here in our community while also making it possible for PEER to reach young people and families through prevention.”
Community Sponsors
PEER Services is grateful to the local businesses, organizations, and community members whose sponsorships make Step Up for Recovery possible. Special recognition goes to our Icon and Hall of Famer Sponsors:
Icon Sponsors:
Hall of Famer Sponsors
Attend Step Up for Recovery or Support the Cause
Community members can participate by attending the walk or making a donation. Participants can choose their ticket price: $50, $25, or Free. All children 12 and under attend free.
Step Up for Recovery 2026
Sunday, October 4, 2026 | 1–3 p.m.
Evanston Lakefront
To learn more, register or donate, visitsecure.qgiv.com/event/stepupforrecovery2026/.
