SEAR Introduces 'Recovery Ally of the Month' to Recognize Campus Allies

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To become a 'Recovery Ally of the Month' attend a Recovery Ally Training on Feb. 4, March 4, or April 1.

The Substance Education, Assessment & Recovery program at Pat Walker Health Center is pleased to announce the new "Recovery Ally of the Month" recognition, honoring students, faculty and staff who demonstrate outstanding support for those in recovery. By spotlighting individuals who foster a stigma-free campus, SEAR hopes to encourage broader awareness and participation in recovery advocacy efforts at the U of A.

"For those of us that are either in recovery or possibly considering recovery from a substance use disorder, we must tap into an incredible amount of courage to swim against the stream in a sober-hostile environment," said Ashley Jo Brown, SEAR Program collegiate recovery specialist. "Support, compassion, referral, and a kind word are the very things we need to take that scary leap into a new and healthier way of living. By helping to reduce stigma for our very marginalized community, you are paving the way to create a recovery-ready campus and could be saving a life."

How to Become "Recovery Ally of the Month"

• Attend Recovery Ally Training
  Completing a Recovery Ally Training session is the first step toward eligibility. These free, interactive trainings equip participants with knowledge about addiction, recovery and ways to support peers and colleagues effectively. 
• Engage With SEAR and the Razorback Recovery Community
  Priority consideration goes to individuals who attend SEAR or RRC events, refer students to recovery services, or actively promote recovery-friendly initiatives.
• Advocate for a Stigma-Free Environment
  Recipients of the "Recovery Ally of the Month" must demonstrate compassion and commitment to creating a campus community where recovery is respected and encouraged.

Each month's recipient is presented with a special gift in appreciation of their efforts.

About Recovery Ally Training

Offered on the first Tuesday of every month for spring 2025, Recovery Ally Trainings cover:

• Dispelling myths and stigma: Addressing common misconceptions about substance use disorders
• Understanding substance use and overdose trends: Learning about the prevalence and impact on campus and beyond
• Hearing firsthand stories: Gaining insight from individuals with lived recovery experience
• Navigating campus resources: Discovering the support services available at the U of A
• Taking action: Equipping participants with tools to be effective allies

RSVPs for the Recovery Ally Trainings can be made on HogSync. RSVPs are not required, but they are encouraged. Training dates for spring 2025 are set for Feb. 4, March 4, and April 1. All students, faculty and staff are invited to attend. Join SEAR and the Razorback Recovery Community in celebrating dedicated allies who are making a positive difference in the lives of students in recovery. By working together, we can help build a more inclusive, compassionate, and stigma-free campus community. 

For more information about SEAR and the RRC, visit health.uark.edu or @razorbackrecovery and @uarksear on Instagram. Questions can also be answered via email at razrecov@uark.edu or by calling 479-575-2500.