What is a Recovery Community Organization?

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 A Recovery Community Organization (RCO) is an independent, non-profit group governed by people with lived experience in substance use disorder recovery. RCOs bridge the gap between clinical treatment and long-term sobriety by providing peer support, community education, and advocacy to help individuals and families maintain healthy, meaningful lives.

RCOs typically provide three core types of non-clinical services: 

• Peer Support Services: Trained Peer Recovery Support Specialists (PRSS) and recovery coaches—who have personal experience with addiction—provide guidance, resources, and mentorship. 
• Community Education: RCOs host public awareness campaigns, youth programs, and seminars to reduce the social stigma surrounding addiction. 
• Policy & Advocacy: They advocate for local, state, and national policies that expand funding, housing access, and employment opportunities for people in recovery. 

The primary goal of an RCO is to mobilize local resources and offer a welcoming space for anyone seeking or sustaining long-term recovery, regardless of the specific recovery path they choose.