Will Work for Recovery, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit Recovery Community Organization, is dedicated to restoring hope and providing support to individuals in recovery from substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders. Serving the North Minneapolis recovery community and surrounding cities, our mission is embodied through peer-led and peer-driven services and activities.
In 2023, we have made significant strides in living our mission, offering a wide range of recovery-focused events and programs that have impacted lives, fostered community strength, and promoted individual and collective growth.
Our Impact in Numbers:
All Recovery Meetings: We hosted 936 meetings throughout the year, with three meetings on weekdays and three on weekends, catering to the diverse needs of our community.
Phone Support: Our free phone support service assisted over 800 clients, providing crucial on-demand support.
Narcan Trainings and Distribution: Conducted two Narcan trainings and distributed over 100 fentanyl test strips and Narcan doses, enhancing community safety and awareness.
Re-entry Class: A challenging yet vital initiative, our Re-entry class aimed to assist individuals reintegrating into society, although retaining attendance posed challenges.
Social Events: Our community thrived through social connectivity with over six major events, including go-karting, amusement parks, large BBQs, speaker events, and regular Sunday Fun Day gatherings, along with a new Friday Night Social Event aligned with our "Attitude for Gratitude" Recovery Podcast.
Trauma Group: Launched a trauma support group with eight consistent attendees, addressing the critical component of recovery.
Yoga Classes: Conducted 26 yoga classes, promoting physical wellness and mental peace.
Computer Classes: Offered digital literacy through three six-week computer class sessions, equipping our members with essential skills.
Peer Services: A milestone achievement was beginning to hire for and set up billing for peer services, marking significant organizational growth.
Impact and Achievements
The hallmark of 2023 has been the introduction and success of evidence-based programs, including our Re-entry initiative, Trauma group, Computer classes, and the innovative Friday night Podcast. These programs reflect our commitment to a holistic approach to recovery, addressing various facets of our members' lives.
Our consistent membership base of 25 individuals over a five-year period underscores the trust and efficacy of our approach, with members becoming beacons of hope and exemplars for peers.
Community and Family Involvement
Families are integral to the recovery journey. We've welcomed and encouraged family participation in our center, celebrating and recognizing the milestones and growth of their loved ones, further strengthening the community support system.
Financial Overview and Future Directions
As we move forward, our financial strategies will focus on sustaining and expanding our programs, ensuring the continuation of free services, and exploring additional funding avenues to support our growing needs. The initiation of billing for peer services represents a significant step towards financial sustainability and expansion.
Reflecting on the year, Will Work for Recovery has not only lived up to its mission but has also expanded its reach and deepened its impact. Our achievements are a testament to the power of community, the resilience of individuals in recovery, and the effectiveness of peer-led support. As we look to the future, we are excited to build on this foundation, exploring new ways to serve, support, and empower our community.
We extend our deepest gratitude to our members, volunteers, staff, and donors, whose dedication, support, and generosity have made our work possible. Together, we are restoring hope and rebuilding lives, one day at a time.
