Building Bridges: The Power of Recovery Communities
When peer-led recovery is in place, all the good work and prevention and treatment is honored and that investment.
Imagine a place where people understand your struggles and celebrate your victories. In this episode of 'Get In The Herd', host Nathan Mitchell sits down with Jeff Breedlove from The Georgia Council on Substance Abuse and Deanna Allen from Abundant Place to explore the transformative power of Recovery Community Organizations (RCOs). These peer-led groups are lifelines for those navigating the choppy waters of addiction recovery, offering support, resources, and a sense of belonging.
Jeff and Deanna delve into the upcoming 'Communities of Recovery' conference, set to happen virtually on June 17-18. This event is more than just a gathering; it's a movement aiming to unite recovery communities and highlight the critical role of recovery peers. Deanna shares how a grant helped her organization plan Georgia's first statewide recovery conference, showcasing the tangible impact of such support. The conversation also tackles the unique challenges RCOs face.
Jeff provides real-life examples from Georgia, like a gender-specific RCO in downtown Atlanta that offers a safe haven for those in recovery. He stresses the importance of community involvement and buy-in to ensure these organizations thrive. Stigma and inequality in addiction treatment are also key topics. Both guests emphasize the need for advocacy and awareness to combat these issues, reminding us that addiction doesn't discriminate—it can affect anyone.
They discuss how innovation and creative approaches are essential in the ongoing battle against addiction, with long-term peer-led recovery playing a crucial role. If you're looking for inspiration or practical advice on how to support recovery efforts in your community, this episode is a must-listen. Jeff and Deanna's insights will leave you feeling hopeful and motivated to make a difference. Tune in to learn how you can be part of this vital movement.