‘ASPIRE’ aims to help young adults maintain long-term sobriety
The YMCA of Montclair, in partnership with the National Youth Recovery Foundation (NYRF) and Partners for Health Foundation in Montclair, will launch three 12-week programs geared to adults between the ages of 18 and 30 in long-term recovery. ASPIRE (Achieving Sobriety by Promoting an Insightful Recovery Experience) will provide lifestyle and professional skills coaching from business people in the recovery community to help participants launch their next life chapters. The program will be held at the YMCA of Montclair’s Park Street Branch. The first cohort of 20 young adults, who have six months or more of recovery, begins February 15. Applications and more information on the schedule can be found at www.montclairymca.org/aspire.
The NYRF works with young adults and educators in recovery and, using documented research from the leading institutes studying addiction and recovery, built the ASPIRE curriculum that is compatible with the needs of people in long-term recovery and the philosophy of the Y that life, health and community are keys to happiness and fulfillment.
Partners for Health is funding this pilot program, which fills a significant gap in the journey of recovery of young people. Participants of the three cohorts will receive hands-on experiential learning that supports improvement of relationships, career and education enhancement and health and fitness. During the three months, participants will explore their own personalities, goals and communication styles; focus on acquiring life skills needed to stay sober; improve their health and wellness; learn a variety of socialization skills; and complete a number of practical tasks leading to furthering their education, advancing career objectives and improving personal relationships.
“We are pleased to support ASPIRE’s innovative approach which aligns with our strategic focus to strengthen the mental health safety net,” said Pam Scott, Executive Director of Partners for Health. “The YMCA’s stigma-free environment offers a safe, supportive place for those in early recovery to convene. We hope this program will become a model that other communities across the country will be able to replicate.”
Jo Ann Short, President and CEO of the YMCA of Montclair, added, “Supporting everyone in our community is core to the Y’s mission and to be able to accommodate and welcome participants in this program is our privilege and duty. It’s a natural addition to our portfolio of mission-driven programs such as LIVESTRONG at the YMCA for cancer survivors and our Diabetes Exercise Program. Addiction is a chronic disease and the nation’s number one epidemic; to support those on their journey to sustainable recovery is an opportunity for which we’re delighted to be involved. We depend on our community partners for support and, with the expertise of the NYRF and the generous support of PFH, we are able to together have true collective impact.”
For more information and to apply to participate in ASPIRE, please email or call 973-744-6161 x186.