Recovery Community Organization

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A Recovery Community Organization is an independent, nonprofit organization led and governed by representatives of local communities of recovery. These communities organize recovery-focused policy advocacy activities, carry out recovery-focused community education and outreach programs, and/or provide peer-based recovery support services (P-BRSS).

• Recovery Community Organizations, their staff and programs always focus on recovery first
• RCO’s gear their services to all people. Their programs and services reflect cultural diversity and inclusion 
• Decisions are made through the participatory process from the staff, stakeholders, partnerships, and individuals receiving services 
• They run on the peer-helping-peer model 
• Programs allow for leadership development in staff, volunteers and individuals receiving services 
• All programs, services, communications and policies are strength-based 
• All programs and services encourage individual autonomy and choice 

• Recovery vision: Long-term recovery from substance use disorder happens 
• Authenticity of voice: person’s in long-term recovery drive the programs and services within the Recovery Community Organization
• Accountability to the greater recovery community to help and support 
• Continued public education & awareness to reduce stigma and help community members understand that recovery is possible 
• Continued policy advocacy 
• Offer peer-based and other recovery support services that support multiple pathways of recovery 
• Mutual trust and respect for all participants 
• Recognition of strengths and contributions of all participants 
• Shared leadership, decision-making power, resources and credit among members
• Assurance that each member is treated equally 
• Promise of a safe environment for clear and open communication that values feedback from all members 
• Respect for the knowledge and expertise of members 
• Belief that community input is essential 
• Commitment to the value of diversity 
• Understanding that relationships must be nurtured and that they evolve and change .