St. Christopher’s Inn “Be the Bridge” Walk Across the Hudson Marks Five Years of Celebrating Recovery and Community

On Sunday, September 20, 2026, St. Christopher’s Inn will celebrate its 5th Annual “Be the Bridge Walk for Recovery” at Walkway Over the Hudson in Poughkeepsie, NY. What began as a gathering of alumni, families, friars, staff and friends has grown into an annual tradition that celebrates the power of recovery and the local community that makes it possible.

More than a fundraiser, “Be the Bridge Walk for Recovery” is a visible reminder that recovery from the disease of substance use is not a journey taken alone. Substance abuse effects 1 in 4 families. Every step across the Hudson represents encouragement, hope, and the heartfelt belief that healing is possible. Participants walk in honor of loved ones, in gratitude for their own recovery, and in support of the hundreds of men who come to St. Christopher’s Inn seeking a second chance at life.

“For many men, recovery begins with someone believing in them when they can no longer believe in themselves,” said Fr. Dennis Polanco, SA, President and Spiritual Director of St. Christopher’s Inn. “The walk reminds us that no one travels this road alone. We walk beside one another as a Recovery Community, offering hope, encouragement, and the promise that a new beginning is possible.”

For more than a century, men have come to the Holy Mountain at Graymoor seeking healing and a new beginning. That same Franciscan spirit of hope and compassion continues today through St. Christopher’s Inn and its commitment to helping men in their long-term recovery.

Located in Garrison, New York, St. Christopher’s Inn is a substance use treatment and Recovery Community for men that provides residential and outpatient treatment, recovery support services, and a pathway to renewed purpose. If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use disorder, St. Christopher’s Inn is here to help. Call 845-335-1020 to learn more about our Residential and Outpatient programs.

Funds raised through the “Be the Bridge Walk for Recovery” support the life-saving programs of St. Christopher’s Inn.

There will be music, face painting, family activities, resource tables, and opportunities to connect with Alumni, recovery advocates, and supporters who make the mission of St. Christopher’s Inn possible. It’s also a chance to reconnect with old friends, make new connections and spend an afternoon at one of New York’s most beautiful landmarks.

Children, parents, grandparents, siblings and friends are all welcome to help build ‘bridges of hope’ for men seeking a path toward healing and a new beginning. Participants can come as individuals, bring their families or create a team and walk together. Registration is available here.