Originally developed as a resort destination in the 1880s, Long Beach became a year-round community with strong working-class Irish and Italian families. The recovery community took root in the 1960s and was strengthened after Hurricane Sandy (2012) when mutual aid efforts created lasting support networks.

Only barrier island recovery community on Long Island, Year-round therapeutic ocean access for all recovery stages, Post-Hurricane Sandy rebuilding parallels recovery themes, Historic boardwalk provides perfect meditation and exercise space, Island geography creates natural boundaries supportive of recovery. Barrier island location between Atlantic Ocean and Reynolds Channel provides unique therapeutic environment with ocean healing benefits while maintaining mainland connectivity.