In recovery, there is a central theme around the connection to others. Community involvement teaches you to connect with others who may share similar goals as you. An alumni program can be the tool to connect you to follow recoverees who have experienced similar situations as you and show you a different perspective. Additionally, community involvement can pave the way to giving back and increasing your happiness in recovery.
This blog will explore community involvement for lasting recovery and how alumni programs can help make that your reality. Additionally, you will learn about some local events happening for National Recovery Month in September.
What Are Alumni Programs in Recovery?
An alumni program is for people who have completed treatment. If you have completed treatment, an alumni program is an opportunity to experience connection and community involvement. Additionally, the program can provide an aftercare option if you want to receive more treatment.
In an alumni program, you will be able to receive peer and professional support while developing your relapse prevention skills. You will be able to connect with other participants who are seasoned in the recovery process. As a member of the alumni program, you will also benefit from staying in touch with your treatment team. Additionally, you can seek community involvement by volunteering in your local area either through The Guest House or on your own.
How Can Community Involvement Help My Recovery?
At The Guest House, we value community involvement as part of the recovery process. When you complete a highly structured rehabilitation program and transition to an alumni program, this helps you to stay connected and engaged with a recovery community.
Community involvement can provide structure and help you stay on track with your goals as you transition back into your daily routine. Additionally, according to BMC Public Health, community involvement can decrease signs of depression. People tend to feel less depressed when surrounded by others, and volunteering usually involves working with others. What’s more, volunteering often involves helping people, which inherently feels good. As humans, we are wired to connect socially. What’s more, it’s often said that connection is the opposite of addiction. It follows that seeking community involvement enhances recovery.
How Will Community Involvement Benefit Me in an Alumni Program?
This is the perfect time to incorporate community involvement into your life. It is National Recovery Month and it’s easy to want to give back what has been given to you. Connecting to others can be a great motivator in your recovery, and you’ll find that connection within an alumni program. Additionally, community involvement is an essential part of an alumni program, allowing you to support others and provide inspiration.
Actively engaging in community involvement in Ocala, Florida, can help you connect with others, establish relationships, and give back. Here are several other benefits of community involvement in an alumni program:
- A sense of purpose
- Increased social skills
- The chance to meet new friends
- Improved self-esteem
- Possible job opportunities
However, there are so many more benefits not included in this list. You can find calm and rejuvenation through a self-care regimen and also through volunteering.
How Can I Get I Get Involved in the Community of Ocala, Florida?
In Ocala, there are many opportunities for community involvement, especially with it being National Recovery Month. On September 9, Ocala will hold its sixth annual Recovery Fest to remember those who lost their battle. This particular event takes place at Tuscawilla Park, Ocala, starting at ten a.m. The day includes other events as well, as part of Mobilize Recovery Day of Service.
Another community outreach event associated with Mobilize Recovery Day of Service is called “A Day of Love” on September 30 in Ocala, Florida. If you are interested, you can find more information at recoverydayofservice.org. Mobilize Recovery Day of Service is a national movement that harnesses the power of recovery through motivational stories. These stories provide hope and love to all of those who listen.
You do not have to do anything major to achieve community involvement. All you need is a willing heart and a curious mind. For example, you can inquire about how to volunteer at either of the aforementioned events. What’s more, you can volunteer at a nearby soup kitchen, help at a 12-Step meeting by serving coffee, or stop by the local library to read books to children. Community involvement does not need to be a gigantic production. You need to do what works for you and your recovery.
Community Involvement Through The Guest House
Even if you are craving community involvement, it can be hard to know where to go or what to get involved in. This is where an alumni program can be useful in your recovery. Your alumni program will guide you to the places to be involved in and explore the areas that need the most help in your community.
If you seek community involvement through The Guest House, you will have an unforgettable experience. As you likely know, we are located on 52 acres of land, surrounded by a scenic park. Most say that it is the scenery that fills their spirit. However, it’s not just the scenery that people find fulfilling. It is also the connection with others that happens on our grounds that enhances people’s lives.
At The Guest House, we celebrate who you are in this moment and we know you will choose recovery every time. We understand that it is difficult to figure out how to meet your goals for community involvement. There are many choices and you may not know where to start. You can start small, simply by giving us a call.
Community involvement can look different for everyone, depending on where you are at in your recovery. Maybe you want to volunteer at a large event or maybe you want to become a mentor. Just as everyone has a different recovery path, you will have your own path to community involvement. There is no right or wrong way of participating. Since this is National Recovery Month, it may be important for you to celebrate by seeking community involvement. At The Guest House, we are here to support you in every part of your journey. Give us a call today at (855) 483-7800. We are always here to support you and are open to any questions.