How Grassroots Action is Transforming Recovery Support

By Monika Whitfield, Executive Director, Washington Recovery Alliance

In an era where funding landscapes shift unpredictably, communities are proving that they don’t have to wait for permission—or for federal and state dollars—to take action. The power of grassroots organizing, volunteers, and community-led initiatives is shaping the future of recovery support across Washington State and beyond.

I recently attended the Unite for Recovery breakfast, which benefitted the capital campaign for Benton Franklin Recovery Coalition’s Columbia Valley Center for Recovery. The event was a testament to what can happen when people come together with a shared vision. Rather than waiting for institutional support to materialize, local leaders, advocates, and volunteers are stepping up to ensure that recovery resources remain accessible and sustainable.

Dr. Michele Gerber, President of the Benton Franklin Recovery Coalition, underscores why tapping into the local community is so critical. “The reason we have been successful thus far is that we involved every sector of the community, and showed them how recovery in those who need it will benefit the whole community,” said Michele.

A similar story is unfolding on the Washington-Idaho border, where the Whitman Recovery Community Center is being established in collaboration with Moscow, Idaho’s Latah Recovery Center. This cross-state partnership demonstrates the immense power of cooperation, especially in rural areas where resources are scarce. As Megan Guido, Director of Whitman Recovery Community Center, explains: "It's possible for two states that share a border - even two states with traditionally very different political landscapes - to come together as a regional community to improve the quality of life and act on shared values. People fighting addiction and going through recovery don't see state boundaries; neither should the community or funders."

These community-driven efforts illustrate a fundamental truth: while funding from institutional sources will always be valuable, it is not the sole determinant of progress. The real work happens on the ground, in neighborhoods, and among people who recognize that waiting for the “perfect” funding cycle or policy change isn’t an option.

At the Washington Recovery Alliance, we see this dynamic at play across the state. Every day, individuals and organizations rise to meet the needs of those seeking substance use disorder and mental health recovery. These efforts don’t just fill gaps left by shifting political and economic priorities—they redefine what is possible when people take ownership of their communities’ well-being.

At a time of deep societal divisions, recovery reminds us that our shared humanity is what truly unites us. By investing in each other—through time, resources, and collaboration—we tap into an immense capacity to make real, lasting change, regardless of external uncertainties.

If we are serious about building a future where recovery is accessible to all, we must rethink how we support and sustain these efforts. That means not just applauding community-led initiatives but investing in them—whether through funding, volunteerism, or policy support. The future of recovery isn’t just a government responsibility; it’s a collective one.