Licensed Nursing Assistant

Bridge to Recovery Walk returns September 20 to support mental health and Substance Use recovery. August 21, 2026 Concord Hospital Health System (CHHS) invites community members to come together in support of individuals and families affected by mental health and substance use disorders at the annual Bridge to Recovery Walk, taking place Sunday, September 20, 2026, at Concord Hospital - Franklin. The approximately two-mile walk brings together people in recovery, their families and friends, healthcare professionals, community members, and supporters to raise awareness and funds for mental health and substance use disorder programs and services at Concord Hospital - Franklin and Concord Hospital - Laconia. The event will also feature live music, a patient speaker, and a complimentary pancake breakfast prepared by Dr. Paul Racicot and Boomer's BBQ. "The Bridge to Recovery Walk is about showing people that they don't have to face recovery alone," said Philanthropy Officer for Concord Hospital Trust and Bridge to Recovery Event Coordinator Heidi Smith. "Every person who walks, donates, volunteers, or sponsors this event helps create a visible community of support around our patients and families. It's an uplifting morning that reminds us how much can happen when a community comes together with compassion and a shared purpose." In 2025, the Bridge to Recovery Walk raised more than $50,000 for Concord Hospital Recovery Clinics in Franklin and Gilford, helping patients access services and resources that support them throughout their recovery. Funds raised have helped cover insurance co-pays and care for uninsured patients, provide gas cards for transportation to appointments, support basic personal necessities, and fund scholarships for local fitness programs. For Corey Gately, MLADC, director of Substance Use Services at the Recovery Clinics and Laconia Doorway at Concord Hospital - Franklin and Laconia, that practical assistance can help address barriers that may otherwise make recovery more difficult. "Recovery looks different for every person, and it rarely happens through one service or one moment," said Gately. "People need access to treatment, but they also need connection, encouragement, and practical support that helps them continue moving forward. The Bridge to Recovery Walk shows our patients that there is an entire community standing beside them and believing in their ability to build a healthier future." Participants are encouraged to form teams with family members, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and others who want to show their support. The walk is designed to welcome people at every connection to recovery; whether they are celebrating their own journey, supporting someone they love, honoring someone they have lost, or simply demonstrating that help and hope are available. The event also provides an opportunity to raise awareness of the resources available locally for people experiencing substance use disorders and their families. CHHS's recovery services connect patients with treatment and ongoing support while helping address individual barriers to recovery. "Every registration represents more than participation in a walk," Smith said. "It helps us provide resources that can make a very real difference for someone trying to take that next step. We hope people throughout the Lakes and Three Rivers Regions will join us in September and help make sure our neighbors know support is here." To register, create a team, donate, or learn more about the Bridge to Recovery Walk, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/NH/Franklin/BridgetoRecoveryWalk.

Concord Hospital - Laconia earns two honors in 2026 Best of the Lakes Region awards. July 01, 2026 Concord Hospital Health System (CHHS) is proud to announce that Concord Hospital - Laconia (CHL) has been recognized with two awards in the 2026 Best of the Lakes Region contest, earning silver honors for Best Hospital and Best Otolaryngology. Hosted annually by the Laconia Daily Sun, the Best of the Lakes Region awards celebrate organizations, businesses, and services that make a positive impact throughout the Lakes Region. This year, more than 47,000 people cast over 310,000 votes, recognizing their favorite local businesses and service providers across dozens of categories. The recognition reflects the trust community members place in CHL providers to deliver high-quality, compassionate care close to home. Lakesregionchamber is incredibly honored to be recognized by the communities Lakesregionchamber serve, said Chief Administrative Officer and Administrative Director of Medical Specialties at Concord Hospital Franklin and Laconia, Debbie McLaughlin, RN. These awards are especially meaningful because they come directly from the people who experience its care firsthand. They reflect the dedication of its entire care team, who work every day to ensure its patients receive exceptional care in a welcoming and compassionate environment The recognition also highlights the ongoing investment CHHS has made in strengthening healthcare services throughout the Lakes Region. Since 2021, the organization has expanded access to specialty care, enhanced facilities and technology, recruited providers, and introduced new services to meet the evolving needs of local residents. Whether patients are visiting Lakesregionchamber for primary care, specialty care, surgery, rehabilitation, or emergency services, its goal is always the same: to provide safe, high-quality care close to home," McLaughlin said. Lakesregionchamber is grateful for the confidence its community places in Lakesregionchamber and remain committed to serving the Lakes Region for generations to come.