Living Proof Recovery Centers has been a supportive place for many individuals since opening in 2002. It’s peer-led and volunteer driven environment can be found in Camden County, and most recently, on Rowan College of South Jersey’s campus in Gloucester County. Recovery support efforts here are ever expanding and the services offered are designed for those considering, entering or already in recovery.

As a staff member for over eight years I have had the opportunity to see the impact of this program’s efforts. I love seeing people begin to open up, change and heal by sharing their stories with myself and others. The support at our Living Proof Recovery Centers is offered in a variety of approaches all aiming to support those with a substance use disorder. Some of the approaches include: peer mentoring and coaching, development of a recovery plan, wellness classes and support groups, educational assistance and so much more. The sense of community and the peer to peer recovery environment is what makes this such a special place.

    Like the sign reads in the main room of the Living Proof Recovery Center at our Camden County location, ‘Everyone has a story,’ the individuals who come to our support center each have their own personal stories of strength and hope. By creating a safe space for sharing, each person finds they are not alone. This is where relationships and connections are born, confidence is reinstated and the road to recovery can begin its paving process.

    I have had the privilege of serving the community at this gem of a center for quite a while now and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I see the heart of not only recovery from addiction, but the personal transformation of individuals who come to and work at the center. It is inspiring to say the least.  Learning, growth, and wellness is celebrated almost every day at the Living Proof Recovery Centers.

    There are trips to different places that people would not normally be able to do, such as to the Baltimore Aquarium, or to Great Adventure.  These are fun, family friendly escapes that we have been offering to our community. There is also a food pantry, where individuals can come if they are in need.

     Personal growth in different areas of life is a cornerstone of what we offer at the Living Proof Recovery Centers.  An efficient way to begin recovery is with supportive relationships, and we foster that here. We meet people wherever they are in life. Empathy, compassion, and practicing non-judgment are what we as peers practice each day when we enter the center.

    At times individuals come in in a crisis, and we walk alongside them as they arm themselves with a plan of action.  We guide them and support them each step of the way.  Maybe they realize they are addicted to substances, maybe they are very depressed, maybe they could really use some food for their family.  Whatever it happens to be, we are there with them, supporting them as they begin to move forward.  That first interaction with a peer can be a game-changer for them.  I have worked with people on the fence about getting the help they need for their addictions, and have watched them make the life-changing decision to go to a rehab and get some help. I have supported them and guided them in their decision.  The initial support of a peer is powerful and has the potential to propel them into a whole new way of life. 

    I have seen people change over time. People who were once closed off and stoic becoming more open, vulnerable, and happier. People who relied on substances to function become leaders, and powerful advocates. I, myself, have become a more confident and happier version of my previous self thanks to Living Proof Recovery Centers and the peer support network it provides.

Living Proof Recovery Centers provides life-changing and life-saving services to those who need it most by offering a community of support. Your recovery is possible with a place like Living Proof Recovery Centers.