On Saturday, November 15, 2025, the Station Gallery in Whitby, Ontario, came alive with music, poetry, storytelling, and the unmistakable glow of hope. Renascent hosted Sparks of Hope, an evening dedicated to celebrating the transformative power of artistic expression in recovery.

Often in addiction, artistic expression is lost and through recovery, one is able to rediscover — or perhaps even discover — their artistic talents and nature. The night was dedicated to showcasing the incredible talent of our recovery community and to recognize their artistry.

On display throughout the Gallery was artwork from various Renascent alumni, as well as various art activities for guests to participate in, all centred around the theme of hope.

Whitby Mayor Elizabeth Roy joined the celebration, offering remarks in support of Renascent’s life-saving work, providing addiction treatment to people seeking to begin their journey of recovery.

At the heart of the evening was the Sparks of Hope Writing Contest, the visionary idea of long-time Renascent donor and champion of the arts, Anne Millyard. The contest invited clients, alumni, family members, and loved ones to submit short stories or poetry. Alumni served as judges leading up to the event, and the submissions were nothing short of breathtaking.

The short story winner was Keaton O. with her powerful piece “I Walked Home.” Keaton, a Renascent Graham Munro Centre alumni, took the podium to read her winning entry to sustained applause. Renascent addictions counsellor and emcee Cynthia Langill, who worked with Keaton during treatment, spoke warmly of the remarkable transformation she had witnessed firsthand.

Two honourable mentions were also celebrated: “Us” by Nicole K., and “Reborn” by Elizabeth F.

In the poetry category, Kristie R. took top honours with her poem “I hope, I hope, I know,” a stirring chronicle of moving from fragile hope to unshakable belief in oneself and one’s future. Two Honourable mentions were also celebrated: “My Survivor Story” by Cynthia T., and “Untitled” by Bo M.

Between readings, guests enjoyed soul-stirring performances by singer-songwriter and Renascent addictions counsellor, Melissa Lauren, who was accompanied by Alpha House Clinical Manager and musician, Darren Greer. Their music embodied the joy recovery can bring.

Congratulations to every writer who shared their truth. Because of you, the fire of creativity and recovery burned bright.