Everyone knows that you don’t finish recovery the moment you leave your treatment center. But did you know that that same treatment center might not finish helping you?
A growing number of treatment centers are offering robust alumni programs, which allow former attendees to continue connecting with the resources of the center as well as maintain their community.
In fact, a recent white paper found that half of the interviewed treatment centers offered some kind of “renewal weekend” for center alumni. These centers may also feature weekly alumni groups or alumni outings, as two other options. Want to try one out for yourself? Check out five of our favorite programs below.
Banyan Treatment Center’s Alumni Program – Boston (MA), Chicago (IL), Pompano (FL), and Laurel Run (PA)
“The Banyan Treatment Center Family believes it is important for those who complete any of our addiction treatment programs to stay connected for a lifetime … An alumni program for addiction serves as the perfect aftercare network for those who are practicing long-term sobriety and are looking for encouragement from others. [We] host meetings to keep patients involved, motivated, and on track. We also host monthly events for a fun filled way to socialize in a sober environment, like paintball, snorkeling and barbecues.”
Wilmington Treatment Center Alumni Association – Wilmington (NC)
“When you complete treatment at Wilmington, you will join a community of alumni who are committed to lifelong sobriety. [We’re] dedicated to helping patients make the transition from treatment to the recovery community and to support all patients, family and friends in their ongoing recovery. Our alumni program includes a number of components, including an annual alumni picnic, a Facebook page, a monthly newsletter and a contact program.”
Hazelden Betty Ford Alumni Community – Nationwide
“Connecting with others in recovery from addiction is one of the healthiest moves you can make to thrive in your new life of recovery. We have a wide variety of alumni activities so you can choose what’s right for you and best supports your ongoing recovery, including alumni events and reunions, recovery retreats and workshops, recovery speaker series and more!”
The Ranch Rehab Program – Nunnelly (TN) and Wrightsville (PA)
“Our alumni program at The Ranch is managed by a passionate, licensed professional who goes above and beyond to empower you in recovery. You’ll begin developing strong relationships with our alumni director while still in treatment through weekly groups. These groups provide opportunities for support, hope, and insight between those sharing similar struggles. Other highlights of our alumni program include periodic calls, emails, and notes from our onsite alumni director, an annual alumni celebration and over 50 guest speakers throughout the year who address a variety of recovery topics.”
Sierra Tuscon Alumni – Tuscon (AZ)
“Sierra Tucson is committed to supporting our resident and family member Alumni’s continued healing by hosting retreats, workshops, and recovery events.” Their alumni program also features an online toolbox, weekly support groups and an alumni ambassador program. They also have two staff members who help run the multi-faceted program.
Still looking for a post-treatment program to join? Try In The Rooms, the online global recovery community. With over 150 weekly online meetings, there’s sure to be a meeting that you’ll like.
Photo by Robert Bye on Unsplash
