Building Communities of Recovery (filling the gaps for those affected by incarceration and youth) - Abstract Summary Greater Tilton Area Family Resource Center (GTA-FRC) respectively submits this proposal to enhance and deliver quality long-term recovery support for persons with substance use disorder (SUD) and co-occurring substance use and mental disorders (COD) through the Building Communities of Recovery Program to the central New Hampshire region, targeting youth and those affected by incarceration. This region served is Central New Hampshire, specifically Concord, Tilton, Franklin, and the surrounding rural areas. GTA-FRC is a model of integrated peer recovery and family support that started in a church basement, hosting fellowship meetings and supporting individuals and families affected by SUD and poverty. A non-profit Recovery Community Organization since 2015, it has developed three vibrant centers, one in Tilton, one in Franklin and the most recently opened center in Concord. With individual and organizational gifts, talents, depth of experience and passion, and a network of community, statewide, regional, and national partners, GTA-FRC proposes the following: (1) development of a Youth Program, utilizing the evidence-based practice of Seven Challenges and Alternative Peer Groups; and (2) establishment of a Community Corrections Program, in collaboration with the New Hampshire Department of Corrections. The population to be served include central New Hampshire Youth and their families affected by problematic substance use and individuals transitioning out of the Concord correctional facilities administered by the NH Department of Corrections. GTA-FRC has intentionally chosen strategies the work for adolescents experiencing problematic substance use. The Seven Challenges Program places a special emphasis on creating a climate of mutual respect within which individuals can talk openly and honestly about themselves. Youth are engaged in actively thinking about their use of alcohol or other drugs, and its effect upon their lives. The Alternative Peer Group (APG) is a comprehensive adolescent recovery support model that integrates recovering peers and prosocial activities into evidence-based clinical practice. To meet the needs of those returning to the community following incarceration, GTA-FRC proposes a multi-pronged approach to create a connection with the recovery community at the time of release: (1) a Community Corrections Support Worker, (2) an Outreach Worker, specializing in the homeless population and (3) referral to an Employment Specialist. The two goals supported by this requested funding are: (1) decrease youth substance use in the community by implementing Seven Challenges and Alternative Peer Groups in two school districts; and (2) increase recovery capital in individuals released from incarceration. The measurable outcomes at the end of three years include: (1) 30 Youth completing the 7 Challenges Program; (2) 60 Youth participating in Alternative Peer Groups; (3) 90 individuals participating in the Community Corrections Program; and (4) 75 individuals showing an increase in recovery capital.
