On this episode of Airing Addiction:

This week we highlight how feeling a sense of belonging can help people on their recovery journey. Program directors Kim Patterson and Ladonne Rogers will share how Peer Recovery Support Centers create community.

Building social supports and a caring community is essential for recovery.

• We do not recover alone. Recovery can be easier with the support of others.

• Community can include people who accept us and encourage us to grow.

• Family, friends, peers, and others play an important role in someone’s recovery.

• Recovery is supported through meaningful relationships.

• Social inclusion, not isolation, is important for recovery.

Guest bios:

Kim Patterson has been with Spectrum Health Systems as the Program Director of Recovery Exchange since March of 2023. Kim has worked in the city of Lynn serving the homeless and people with substance use disorder for 25 years. Kim has worked with homeless adults, families, and teen mothers. Kim has also worked as a case manager with women in recovery in the city of Lynn. Kim is a woman in long term recovery and has the compassion, empathy, and understanding necessary to assist others on their road to recovery. Kim has a passion for helping others to achieve independence and self–sufficiency. Kim has completed recovery coach training and recovery coach supervisor training to gain the tools necessary to better assist both those seeking recovery and staff seeking to provide services.

Ladonne Rogers has been a Peer Coordinator at Spectrum Health Systems, Recovery Exchange since July 26, 2023. Ladonne has 8 years in his personal recovery and 20+ years of lived experience. Ladonne Coordinates the members in the center to a safe and supportive environment, for participants who might want to volunteer or work on their personal recovery. Ladonne is very passionate about his recovery and empowering new members to work their recovery and set goals to help them build a foundation for bettering their lives.

Join Jesse and Lisa on this Recovery Month episode of Airing Addiction!

On this episode of Airing Addiction:

This week we highlight the importance of purpose as a motivator for positive change. Kathleen Wise shares her recovery story and how giving back by supporting others at New England Recovery Center helps her find her purpose.

Finding purpose in life may be a powerful driver for recovery.

• Purpose includes meaningful daily activities.

• Employment can support recovery, give a sense of purpose, and a way to provide for yourself and your family.

• Purpose may include a job, school, volunteering, caregiving, or creative pursuits.

• Spirituality can bring a sense of purpose and meaning that helps foster recovery.

• Helping others can bring a great sense of purpose and contribute to recovery.

Join Jesse and Lisa on this Recovery Month episode of Airing Addiction!

On this episode of Airing Addiction:

We all need a stable and safe place to call home.

- A home provides the foundation for a life in recovery.

- Home is a safe, stable, and soft space to land…. even on those really hard days.

- Creating safe, affordable housing for all with mental health and substance use conditions supports their recovery.

Join hosts Jesse Chaison and Lisa Blanchard for an insightful episode featuring a panel from the MetroWest Care Connection Housing Coalition, Greater Worcester Housing Connection at SMOC and Open Sky Community Services.

We’ll dive deep into the critical role that safe and stable housing plays in the recovery journey from mental health and substance use conditions.