Furthering the Field GROWING THE MOVEMENT In addition to the work that peer recovery support programs do with individuals and families, and in local communities, many are engaged in efforts that help to develop and strengthen the emerging field of peer support.  Why is this important? The development and growth of the field strengthens our work in recovery in communities, states, and in national and international settings. It also provides an essential platform for recovery work to join traditional medical and health practice in application, reimbursement and health reform accepted services. Finally, this effort will provide an ongoing process to contribute to, use, and implement the best of emerging science (EBPs) Organizations that further the field serve, learn, share, and repeat the process again and again.

Service to the Recovery Community The organization engages in the highest level of service to the recovery community on a local, regional, and national level. Practices servant leadership throughout Demonstrates effective stewardship Has achieved success in removing barriers for people in recovery on a local level Provides evidence of servant leadership in practices, programs and policies internally and externally Maintains comprehensive evidence of stewardship Annual reviews support full accreditation including organizational self-assessments and feedback from partners and stakeholders

Advocacy The organization engages in exemplary advocacy for people in recovery at a local, regional, and national level, using a variety of strategies. Participates in national movement/ national efforts to: *help individuals and families get the help/resources they need to recover *promote long-term recovery *change policies that discriminate against people in or seeking recovery Provides opportunities for peers to share their stories Is recognized as a strong advocate for recovery in local communities, state and national reviews and provides evidence of these efforts.

Champion a Recovery-oriented Community (beyond recovery-oriented system of care) The organization works to change systems and community conditions to help create context in which a recovery-oriented community can emerge.

COALITION BUILDING Is an active builder of local coalitions addressing: addiction, treatment, recovery, mental health, and health care other issues that impact the lives of people in recovery and that can benefit from the experience of people in recovery. Works to deepen knowledge and understanding of assets and issues that exist in the community Facilitates community readiness and increases community capacity to support recovery Encourages and enhances community investment in recovery and resources for recovery. Recognized by decision makers in its state as a resource in the field and can cite concrete examples of these efforts Conducts surveys and exploration of resources and trends in community Provides examples of community events and participates in community engagement activities. Demonstrates activities focused on expanding community recovery resources

EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICE The organization: (1) uses best available evidence to make informed decisions about programs, services, activities; and (2) is committed to sharing with and learning from other recovery community organizations around the country.

What does that look like? Has a commitment to the well-being, rights, and dignity of participants Keeps current with trends in peer service Has process for periodic review of research on addiction and recovery

Promotes the skills, attitudes, and commitment among staff and volunteers to keep learning, to keep searching for new and more effective ways to be of service Participates in learning collaboratives/ learning communities Participates in research studies that will provide evidence on the efficacy of peer services