In the United States today, there are more than 23 million Americans living in recovery from substance use disorders.

That may come as a surprise to many people, including those living in recovery themselves, because many people living in recovery do so quietly, keeping both their condition (substance use disorder) and their remedy (recovery) a secret.

Shame and stigma have plagued people who have dealt with drug and alcohol use for years, but as science catches up with the societal need for human empathy and understanding, we now have the means to create a very real, sustainable change in our communities.

Young People in Recovery, known by their moniker, YPR, is a nationally recognized organization, originally formed in Denver, Colo., that seeks to utilize resources for the betterment of people in recovery by focusing on housing, education and employment. The organization’s services lean toward younger individuals, but with no intent on exclusion of those over, say, 60 years of age.

Young People in Recovery also works closely with legislators, lobbyists, and public policy movers and shakers to advocate and encourage a greater acceptance of those living with substance use disorders in and out of recovery.

But how does the organization define recovery, and what does recovery look like, anyway?

Young People in Recovery makes no distinct assessment of what recovery explicitly is, or how it should appear. Its only intention is to improve the lives of those who are in, or who are seeking recovery, however that is defined by the individual.

Currently, there are 30 Young People in Recovery chapters in 20 states across North America. If you would like to support, become a member, or learn more about Young People in Recovery, please email YPR-WI at [email protected], connect through the group’s Facebook page, at facebook.com/yprmadison, or on Twitter, @YPRWI.

Recovery has a new voice, and, together, that voice can be heard, but only with the help of people just like you. Young People in Recovery’s official website is accessible at youngpeopleinrecovery.org.