New initiative connects recovery organizations, peer professionals and community partners across Florida to strengthen the state’s recovery ecosystem

October 12, 2026 – What if the path to a stronger recovery system starts with listening to the people who have lived it? That question is at the heart of Florida’s new Statewide Recovery Community Organization (SRCO) initiative, led by South Florida Wellness Network Inc. (SFWN) in collaboration with Floridians for Recovery.

The new statewide initiative unites Recovery Community Organizations (RCOs), peer professionals, Managing Entities, providers and community partners to strengthen recovery efforts throughout Florida. Through technical assistance, training, workforce development and opportunities for connection and collaboration, the initiative is designed to strengthen Florida’s recovery ecosystem while keeping the voices of people with lived experience at the center of the work.

“Recovery does not look the same for everyone, and every community has its own strengths, needs and pathways forward,” said Kayla Stone, SRCO Program Director at South Florida Wellness Network Inc. “This initiative puts lived experience at the center, helping communities build stronger recovery systems that reflect the people they serve and strengthen support across the state.”

At its core, the SRCO initiative is built around a simple belief: recovery happens in communities. The initiative works with established and emerging RCOs to listen to local communities, identify needs and connect people with practical support. It also creates opportunities for communities to share what is working, identify gaps and priorities, and build relationships with partners who can help recovery supports grow and remain sustainable.

The initiative provides support in several key areas, including:

  • Technical Assistance: Support for individuals and organizations looking to start or strengthen an RCO, develop peer services, address workforce or operational challenges, plan projects and strengthen systems that support recovery.
  • Training and Workforce Development: Learning opportunities for peer professionals, RCO leaders and community partners designed to strengthen skills and support a growing recovery workforce.
  • Connection and Collaboration: Opportunities to connect RCOs, Managing Entities, providers and other partners working to improve access to recovery supports across Florida.
  • Statewide Learning: Opportunities for communities to share what is working, help identify gaps and priorities, and contribute to opportunities for growth across the state.

“We know that some of the most meaningful knowledge about recovery comes from the people who have lived it,” said Susan Nyamora, President & CEO of South Florida Wellness Network Inc. “South Florida Wellness Network has been grounded in the power of peer support, lived experience and community connection. Through this statewide initiative, we have an opportunity to build on that foundation and help communities across Florida strengthen the recovery supports available to the people they serve.”

Founded in 2014, South Florida Wellness Network Inc. was built on a simple yet powerful mission: to create a peer-driven recovery community where individuals with lived experience of mental health, substance use and trauma support others on their journey to wellness. Now celebrating 12 years of service to the community, SFWN is bringing that peer-driven foundation to communities across Florida through its leadership of the statewide initiative.

Organizations, individuals or community partners interested in learning more or requesting technical assistance can visit Statewide RCO | SFWN.

Funding for this initiative was made possible by federal grant #T1087842, awarded to the Florida Department of Children and Families, through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The views expressed in written materials or publications and by speakers, facilitators, and moderators do not necessarily reflect the official policies of the Department of Health and Human Services, nor does the mention of trade names, commercial practices, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.

 

About South Florida Wellness Network Inc.:

South Florida Wellness Network Inc. (SFWN) is a recovery-focused support network run and driven by young adults, adults, and family peers. We are a community of individuals who have been strengthened by our lived experiences with behavioral, emotional, mental health, trauma, and/or substance use challenges. Our shared experience unites and empowers us to help others discover their unique path to recovery. For more information, visit www.sfwn.org.