March is Alumni Spirit Month at Recovery Centers of America
Completing your addiction treatment is an achievement worth celebrating. However, your recovery journey doesn’t end there. If anything, it’s only getting started. Recovery from addiction is a process that takes time, effort, and dedication. A treatment program alone cannot fix all the issues surrounding your substance abuse. You need ongoing support in a safe and encouraging environment. That’s why the Recovery Centers of America (RCA) has an alumni association to ensure those completing their programs have the necessary resources, inspiration, and desire to continue their recovery once they leave treatment.
RCA also organizes fun alumni recognition events as part of its ongoing commitment to supporting recovering addicts. These events, which include in-person, virtual, and hybrid meet-ups, provide a platform for those in recovery to connect with others who have shared similar experiences in life and at RCA. They provide recovering patients with a sense of community and belonging, which can be crucial in maintaining sobriety.
According to studies, about 40-60% of individuals relapse, and up to 85% relapse cases within the first year. Further studies have found that about 90% of alcoholics will relapse within four years. These numbers highlight the importance of aftercare upon completing a drug rehab program. They show just how crucial it is for those in recovery to access a support system, particularly when feeling overwhelmed or tempted to use again.
RCA’s Alumni Recognition Events and Meetings
RCA’s Alumni offers a platform for individuals to celebrate their sobriety, reflect on their progress and accomplishments, and connect with others who have shared similar experiences. It is also a time for RCA to show its support and appreciation for its alumni and to reinforce the importance of continued engagement in the recovery process.
RCA always has fun and engaging events lined up for those in recovery. Here are just a sampling of some of the events happening during the Alumni Spirit Month of March:
Devon Roll with Recovery
The Devon Roll with Recovery is a roller skating event for alumni, friends, and family (including children). It will take place on Mar 11, from 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM EST at Ringing Rocks Roller Rink: 1500 Ringing Rocks Park, Pottstown, PA. Since the event is based on a 1980s theme, it’s a good idea to rock your 80s outfit for added fun.
Lighthouse Night at the Theatre
RCA Lighthouse Alumni Association is hosting the Night at the Theatre event on Mar 26 from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM EST at Ceasars Atlantic City: 2100 Pacific Ave. AC, NJ 08401. Bring a +1 (a friend, family member, loved one, etc.) to the Atlantic City Ballet’s rendition of Midsummer Night’s Dream for a fantastic time.
Indy Alcoholics Anonymous Any Lengths Meeting
Any Lengths meeting is for those interested in the AA program of recovery from alcohol addiction. It’s an open discussion designed for recovering patients, though non-alcoholics can also attend as observers.
The virtual morning inspiration is an hour-long zoom meeting that supports, inspires, and unites those in recovery. It’s hosted by Alumni coordinators Vince Douglas and Bob Whedbee every Monday through Friday at 7:15 am – 8:15 am EST.
The Big Book Study involves the popcorn-style reading of the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, elaborating on the text and discussing how it relates to everyone’s experience.
Virtual Morning Inspiration
This virtual morning discussion offers inspiration, support and fellowship every Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 9:00 am EST
How Are These Events and Meetings Useful?
Most people maintain connections with those they were in treatment with. They get the chance to meet others who went through the same treatment but at a different time. RCA events and meetings create an opportunity for those in recovery to meet and interact with many others who completed rehab before, during, or after their time. The goal of these events is to help everyone achieve a sustained recovery and a brighter future.
By providing a supportive community and opportunities for growth and self-discovery, RCA is committed to assisting individuals on their recovery journey. Here are ways these events and meetings help:
Celebrate Sobriety
Alumni recognition events by RCA provide a structured opportunity for individuals who have completed addiction treatment to celebrate their sobriety and reflect on their progress and accomplishments. During these events, you can share your stories, talk about your experiences, and connect with others who have faced similar challenges. Attending these events can be a powerful reminder of how far you’ve come since entering treatment and can provide a sense of pride and accomplishment in your journey.
Maintain Connections
RCA’s alumni recognition events provide a platform for you to stay connected with others in recovery. A supportive network of individuals who understand the unique challenges of addiction and recovery can provide comfort and encouragement, particularly during difficult times. It can also be a source of motivation and accountability, helping you stay committed to your sobriety and avoid relapse.
Attending alumni events can also help you maintain a connection with the treatment center, which can be an essential resource for continued support and guidance in your recovery journey. RCA provides access to resources, information about support groups, and the opportunity to participate in ongoing treatment programs.
Build a Support Network
The non-judgmental atmosphere of alumni recognition events allows you to share your experiences openly and honestly without fear of being judged or criticized. This can be especially important if you still feel shame or stigma related to your addiction and can help to reduce social isolation and loneliness.
Encouragement and Motivation
One of the best parts about alumni recognition events is they attract recovering addicts at different levels of healing. Some are just fresh from treatment, while others have been sober for years. If you’re still new in recovery, these RCA events will give you an opportunity to interact with those who have successfully navigated their recovery journey.
This can be a source of inspiration and hope for you. It can help you see that recovery is possible and that you, too can overcome your addiction and live a fulfilling life in sobriety.
And if you’ve been sober for a while, you can still help others navigate recovery. Extending a friendly hand to others can give you a sense of belonging, purpose, and gratitude. Your commitment to recovery isn’t just to yourself but to others as well.
Fosters Continued Growth
Recovery is an ongoing process, and the Alumni Association provides you with opportunities for continued growth and self-discovery. Through educational workshops, group outings, and social gatherings, you can continue to build on the foundation of your treatment experience.
RCA’s Alumni Association exists to offer a safe and supportive environment. It provides many opportunities for those in recovery to connect in meaningful ways. From community-based and online support groups to monthly events and daily recovery meetings, a sober community is always ready and waiting for you. When you choose RCA, you can rest easy knowing your recovery is in good hands.
