Projects and Outreach
The Mayor of Maple Avenue Podcast
Over 1.3 Million Downloads | From Pulitzer Prize-Winning Journalist Sara Ganim
The Mayor of Maple Avenue delivers a powerful, deeply moving investigation into the life of Shawn Sinisi—a beloved son, brother, and friend. After surviving childhood trauma as a victim of Jerry Sandusky, Shawn spent years battling severe addiction and mental health struggles. Hosted by Pulitzer Prize winner Sara Ganim and produced in partnership with Meadowlark Media, Advanced Media, and the Pulitzer Center, this acclaimed series shines an unforgettable light on trauma, systemic failure, and the human lives behind the headlines.
Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts:
Black Balloon Day
Black Balloon Day is an annual day of remembrance observed on March 6 to honor the lives lost to substance use disorder and overdose. Families United for Change partners with local businesses and community members to display black bows throughout our area, raising awareness, reducing stigma, and encouraging everyone to carry naloxone—because every life matters.
Circle of Hope at Tuckahoe Park
The Circle of Hope at Tuckahoe Park is a place of reflection and healing for those affected by substance use disorder (SUD). Created through a collaboration of family members, friends, and an artist in long-term recovery, it represents the shared struggles and resilience of a community united in the fight against addiction. This monument serves as a reminder of the lives touched by SUD and the importance of raising awareness and breaking the stigma surrounding it.
The space offers visitors a peaceful environment to honor loved ones, find comfort, and draw strength. For those in recovery, it symbolizes the possibility of hope and renewal, while for families and friends, it stands as a testament to the enduring love and support that can emerge from even the most difficult circumstances. The Circle of Hope is a powerful example of how community and creativity can come together to inspire healing and resilience.
Into Light
Into Light is a national art activism project that seeks to dismantle the stigma surrounding the disease of addiction and to address the misconception that people with addiction are to blame for their illness.
Through the art of portraiture and storytelling, the Into Light Project art activism exhibit: Drug Addiction: Real People, Real Stories, exists to offer healing and hope and create meaningful dialogue about substance use disorder.
"I entered Shawn on Into Light, it was my first real feeling that he mattered in a special way. Her mission is so inspiring bringing the person to life for others to see who they were, not how they left us." - Marianne Sinisi
CC Boutique
Inspired by Shawn's generous heart and created in partnership with another grieving mother, CC Boutique honors the lives of Shawn (1992–2018) and Christie (1994–2022). Together, their legacies continue through a space that provides free clothing, accessories, personal hygiene products, and encouragement to individuals on their recovery journey.
"Soup-er" Sunday
Held annually the Sunday before the Big Game, our "Soup-er" Sunday brings our community together for hope, remembrance, and support. Enjoy delicious baked goods, raffle baskets, and incredible soups donated by local neighbors, restaurants, and churches. Stop by our awareness table for vital resources—including free Narcan—and view a heartfelt memorial honoring loved ones lost to Substance Use Disorder (SUD). Note: Soups sell out fast!
Awareness Campaigns
Through education, community partnerships, and public outreach, we work to reduce stigma surrounding Substance Use Disorder (SUD), promote hope, and connect individuals and families with resources. Our awareness campaigns encourage conversations that save lives and strengthen our community.
Substance Use Awareness Tree
This season tree brings awareness about those struggling and have lost their lives to Substance Use Disorder.
Made For More
Learn more about this wonderful women's restoration home!
PRO-A Quilt Project
The PRO-A Quilt Project is a memorial quilt created for Blair County Overdose Awareness Day to honor and remember individuals who have lost their lives to Substance Use Disorder (SUD).
Shawn's Room: A Legacy of Hope
In memory of Shawn Sinisi, Families United for Change created a bedroom designed to offer comfort, dignity, and hope to women beginning a new chapter in their lives. Every detail was chosen with love, reflecting Shawn's generous spirit and reminding each woman who enters that she is worthy of a fresh start.
