Fellowship & Community
Recovery is not a journey you have to take alone. Discover the power of community, fellowship, and shared support in building a strong foundation for lasting sobriety.
The Power of Shared Experience
Addiction thrives in isolation, but recovery flourishes in community. Fellowship programs provide a safe space where individuals can share their experiences, support one another, and find strength through collective wisdom. These communities offer hope, accountability, and the understanding that can only come from those who have walked a similar path.
Connection
Build meaningful relationships with others in recovery
Support
Access help and encouragement whenever you need it
Growth
Learn and develop through shared experiences
Fellowship provides essential elements that support long-term recovery success
Shared Understanding
Connect with others who truly understand your struggles and experiences
Accountability
Support network that helps you stay committed to your recovery goals
Hope & Inspiration
Witness others' success stories and find motivation for your own journey
Practical Support
Learn coping strategies and tools from those with lived experience
24/7 Availability
Support is available whenever you need it, day or night
No Judgment
Safe space where you can be honest without fear of judgment
Various fellowship programs offer different approaches to community-based recovery
The original 12-step fellowship focused on alcohol recovery through spiritual principles and peer support.
Fellowship for people recovering from drug addiction using the 12-step approach adapted for all substances.
Specific fellowship for those recovering from cocaine and crack addiction.
Fellowship specifically for those recovering from crystal methamphetamine addiction.
Science-based recovery program using cognitive-behavioral tools and motivational techniques.
Non-religious recovery fellowship emphasizing personal responsibility and cross-talk.
Sponsorship provides one-on-one mentorship and guidance in recovery
What is a Sponsor?
A sponsor is someone with sustained recovery who volunteers to guide and support newcomers through their early recovery journey. This relationship is based on shared experience, mutual respect, and the principle of one person helping another.
Sponsorship is a cornerstone of 12-step programs but is also found in other recovery communities. It provides personalized support that complements group meetings.
Benefits of Having a Sponsor:
- Personalized guidance from someone with recovery experience
- One-on-one support and accountability
- Help working through the 12 steps or other program elements
- Someone to call during difficult times
- Modeling of healthy recovery behaviors
- Assistance in developing coping strategies
- Spiritual and emotional guidance
- Long-term recovery relationship
These fundamental principles guide healthy recovery communities
Anonymity
Your privacy and confidentiality are protected in all fellowship meetings
Acceptance
All people are welcome regardless of background, beliefs, or stage of recovery
Honesty
Authentic sharing and truthfulness are encouraged for genuine healing
Humility
Recognizing our limitations and being open to learning from others
Service
Helping others in recovery strengthens our own sobriety
Gratitude
Appreciation for recovery and the support of the community
Recovery meetings are available in most communities, both in-person and online
Meeting Types:
Open Meetings
Anyone can attend, including family members and friends
Closed Meetings
Only for those with a desire to stop using substances
Online Meetings
Virtual meetings available 24/7 worldwide
Specialty Meetings
Groups for specific demographics (women, men, LGBTQ+, etc.)
How to Find Meetings:
Online Directories:
- • AA: aa.org (meeting finder)
- • NA: na.org (meeting search)
- • SMART Recovery: smartrecovery.org
- • Local community resources
Call for Information:
Call 973-981-3047 for help finding meetings in your area and guidance on which programs might be best for you.
Your first meeting might feel intimidating, but every member was once a newcomer
Just Show Up
You don't need to speak or participate beyond introducing yourself. Simply listening is enough to start.
Try Different Meetings
Each meeting has its own personality. Try several to find where you feel most comfortable.
Get Phone Numbers
Connect with other members who can provide support between meetings.
Join a Community of Recovery
Take the first step toward building a support network that will strengthen your recovery. Fellowship and community can provide the understanding, accountability, and hope you need to maintain lasting sobriety.
Available 24/7 • Completely Confidential • Community-Focused Support