Dinner highlights recovery ministry’s impact in Tuscarawas County

Community members gathered March 13 at First Christian Church on North Wooster Avenue for Dinner with Beneath the Shade 2026, an evening celebrating the impact of recovery housing and the lives being rebuilt through the nonprofit ministry.

Beneath the Shade, which operates recovery homes for men and women in Tuscarawas County, hosted the dinner to thank supporters and share stories of hope from people whose lives have been changed through the program.

Guests were served a meal prepared by women currently living in the Beneath the Shade home, offering a glimpse into the supportive environment being built within the recovery residences.

Throughout the evening, residents, board members and leaders of the organization shared testimonies about the work being done and the lives being changed through the ministry. Speakers emphasized that lasting healing from addiction does not come through programs alone but through community.

“Healing doesn’t happen in programs. It happens in community,” said Nick Javas, executive director of the organization. “It truly takes a village, and the healing and transformation we all get to see is only a byproduct of the community we build together.”

Beneath the Shade provides supportive recovery housing where residents can focus on stabilizing their lives and building relationships with God. The homes also encourage residents to build connections within the surrounding community through service and fellowship.

Residents often connect with local churches and neighbors in simple but meaningful ways, such as shoveling snow for a neighbor, helping prepare meals or welcoming guests to Friday evening dinners at the homes.

Leaders with Beneath the Shade say having a safe and supportive place to live allows residents to stabilize their lives, reconnect with family, develop job skills and pursue meaningful employment.

Supporters at the event were thanked for the role they play in making the ministry possible through prayer, volunteer service and financial support.

Those interested in learning more about Beneath the Shade or ways to support the mission can visit beneaththeshade.org.