Did you know that over 20 million Americans suffer from some form of drug or alcohol addiction? To put that into perspective, that is about one out of every twelve people you pass on the street. It is astounding to think how so many people can fall victim to such a terrible illness and there is not a lot being said publicly about it. If you or a loved one suffers from an addiction, it can be an overwhelming feeling not knowing where to turn to for help. Luckily, there are places like Recovery Communities of North Carolina that are working tirelessly to get people the help they, not only need, but deserve!
The Recovery Communities of North Carolina (RCNC) is a nonprofit organization that promotes addiction recovery, wellness, and citizenship through advocacy, education, and support.
This wonderful organization began as most things do, with an idea. In the summer of 2012, individuals in recovery, along with their families, friends, and supporters, noticed a need to host an event to raise awareness for addiction amid September’s “National Recovery Month”. From this, the 1st Annual Capital Area Rally for Recovery was born.
From the success of that first rally, the group began preparing for the second, but there was an opportunity to do so much more. Therefore, those individuals decided that a nonprofit recovery community organization should be established. This organization would sponsor the annual rally for recovery and support other recovery advocacy efforts. Thus, by the spring of 2013, the Recovery Communities of North Carolina was formed. The RCNC quickly joined the national recovery advocacy movement by becoming a member of Faces and Voices of Recovery’s Association of Recovery Community Organizations.
The RCNC aims to promote a culture that supports addiction recovery for, not only the individuals that struggle, but also the families and communities that are indirectly impacted. The organization wants to make sure that those North Carolinians seeking addiction recovery are given access to the highest quality of care, services, and support. They want to eliminate the stigma surrounding addiction and let people know that those suffering are equal and valued members of the community.
Recovery Communities of North Carolina helps those struggling with addiction through wonderful programs. These programs work to help those in need overcome their addictions and find their place within the community. These programs include NC Access to Recovery (NCATR), which is a voucher program that extends the current array of services and availability of providers in the state by providing treatment and recovery support services through the use of grant funds, so participants can choose their services and providers freely and independently. There is also the Family and Ally Support Group, a non-clinical, non-12 step, mutual aid group driven and run by local family members impacted by substance use disorder that meet on Tuesdays and the Workforce Development and Entrepreneurial Program where participants learn through skill development experiential activities how to prepare for the workforce. All of these programs are wonderful tools and resources in ensuring that addiction doesn’t stop anyone from living the life they were meant to.
With two-thirds of Americans with friends or family members struggling with alcohol or other substance problems, it is likely that you have dealt with this issue first hand and are itching to help RCNC make a difference. While volunteering is a great option, the best way to make a difference is through a donation. Addiction treatment is just a single step on the path to recovery and that path is made all the more difficult when money issues are added in. People in recovery still need to hold down jobs, pay taxes, raise families, and contribute to their community. Any donation you can contribute will go a long way in helping RCNC get people better. These donations contribute to recovery support services like the Recovery Community Center, Volunteer opportunities, Recovery support groups, The Capital Area Rally for Recovery, Recovery Coaching, and Family support.
It is a sad fact that only about 10% of people needing addiction treatment actually get the help they need and most of the time that treatment is too brief. More than ever, these people need the help of their community and the support of organizations like RCNC! Please, take the time to look into RCNC and help make a difference today!
Learn more about Recovery Communities of North Carolina and the wonderful change they are making in the community and consider donating at http://www.rcnc.org
“If you have found recovery, consider giving the community your story as an instrument of hope and healing. If you have been blessed by resources that helped you find and sustain recovery, then join the fight to expand resources for those still suffering.” – William L. White
