Giving Back in Recovery

Beyond being of service, making the conscious choice to regularly give back is an important part of any strong recovery program and fulfilling life. Here are a few ideas for giving back in recovery:

  1. 1. Volunteer. Reach out to organizations that do work that is close to your heart. Love animals? Call your local humane society. Enjoy gardening? Offer to spruce up a neighbour’s lawn or a local community centre’s green space.
  2. 2. Donate. If you’re in the fortunate position of being able to afford to give even a few dollars a month, become a monthly donor. Organizations like Renascent are able to keep running because of donors, so your gift will make an enormous impact.

3. Spend time. So often, all a person really needs is someone to listen. Invite a newcomer for a coffee and just spend a couple of hours with them. Stop to chat with your neighbours when you can, and go for walks with family members and loved ones. The quality time you spend with others is an easy but effective way to give back in recovery.

Share your own ideas for giving back in recovery in the comments below!

About the Authors

Renascent Staff
The staff at Renascent is passionate about helping people with substance addictions so they can reach their full recovery – with compassion, respect, empathy and understanding. Our staff includes our counsellors, all of whom have lived experience of addiction and recovery.