The first five years of sobriety are considered “early recovery.” This is a time when new patterns, behaviors, coping skills, relationships, and identities are still being formed. Research, experience, and common sense teach us that the more support an individual can have during this time, the better their chances will be for long-term success. Northbound is proud to extend the support we offer beyond the active treatment stay, via our vibrant alumni program.
Northbound’s alumni network is vast, strong, and influential within our culture. Our long history of helping the addict and alcoholic in need is reflected in the breadth of our alumni – we now have program graduates who reside in most states across the country! While at Northbound, our clients develop strong bonds amongst each other and with our organization – bonds that continue to prove meaningful and supportive after the conclusion of the active treatment experience.
A message from Alex Zeroski, Northbound Alumni Director:
“I am extremely passionate about working with all of our Northbound Alumni Members. I have personally been a part of the recovery community throughout Orange County, as a family member to many loved ones in recovery, for most of my life. I see the Northbound Alumni represented as people who are of service, who stay engaged, and most impressively, that remain sober and continue to thrive in this local community. Northbound’s Alumni Program is a powerful tool to inspire hope, encouragement, and best of all – we have fun! You are a part of something bigger. As Alumni, you have joined a network of individuals who truly care. We absolutely love it when we get to witness our alumni come back and be a part of it! So, whether you went through the program 30 days ago, or years ago, we want to hear from and see you! Remember, when you get involved and you give back what was given to you, miracles happen.”
What Northbound’s Alumni Program Offers
Northbound’s Alumni Program empowers clients via our vibrant network of ongoing support, monthly meetings and events, opportunities for service work, chances to have good-clean-fun in recovery, and opportunities for peer leadership. Our alumni often return to Northbound to visit and reach out to those newer in the program – we always welcome the opportunity to see their growth and to reconnect. Current clients gain inspiration from meeting alumni who were once in their shoes and who are now living happy and healthy lives after treatment, while alumni benefit from strengthened resolve for recovery and the healing effects of 12th step work.
The Northbound network is a family, and we love to watch as our community comes together to help each other through the journey. We’re all in this together, because nobody should do this alone. If you would like to have a panel, lead a meeting, or volunteer your time, please contact Alex Zeroski, Northbound’s Alumni Director, at alex.zeroski@northboundtreatment.com for more information about how you can get involved.
Northbound alumni are also encouraged to continue building their support network through socialization and celebration with others in recovery. Our Alumni Association exists to create a strong and committed support system for former and current clients. In an effort to reach our mission of “assisting our clients in successfully celebrating one year of continuous sobriety,” we provide alumni with a safe environment where they can plan group activities such as paddle boarding, beach sports, softball, volleyball, concerts, and the celebration of sobriety birthdays. Together, our alumni have the opportunity to experience fun in sobriety as they continue to build a strong social foundation.
Weekly and Monthly Alumni Events
There are several different alumni groups and meetings that occur on a regular basis each month that we encourage alumni to take part in:
- Every Monday: 7 p.m. PST Panel Speaker meeting at The Grove
- Every Wednesday: 6 p.m. PST Family Support Program via Zoom [insert meeting link or link to register]
- Every Friday: 11:30 a.m. PST 12 Step Speaker meeting followed by a 12:30 p.m. BBQ at The Grove
- Varies Northbound’s monthly and quarterly alumni birthday celebrations and events
Connecting with others and sharing stories of recovery, overcoming challenges, and achieving goals can be a powerful and inspiring experience. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in the United States, there are currently more than 20 million Americans suffering from drug and alcohol addiction, and sadly, only about 11 percent of those Americans will actually seek treatment. Your personal story of overcoming fear and isolation can evoke change in other people’s lives. You have a significant story of triumph that needs to be heard, and Northbound’s Alumni Association can provide an outlet for you to do so.
Northbound is active on social media and invites current and former clients and their family to engage with us on Facebook, Alumni Facebook Group, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. We also send out a monthly newsletter recapping past events and highlighting upcoming alumni events. Click here to subscribe to our email newsletter. Northbound Alumni can also be immediately connected with a staff member by calling the 24-hour Northbound Alumni Hotline at (714) 844-0202.
Feel Better. Discover Yourself. Life Free as a member of the Northbound Alumni program.
