At Givens Communities, caring for the whole person means fostering environments where individuals can thrive physically, emotionally, and socially. That commitment extends beyond our campuses through partnerships with organizations that strengthen the health and well-being of communities throughout Western North Carolina.

One such partnership is with Sunrise Community for Recovery and Wellness, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals on their journeys toward recovery, healing, and wellness. Givens Communities is proud to sponsor Sunrise and its efforts to provide compassionate, peer-led support services across the region.

What makes Sunrise unique is its people-centered approach. The organization is staffed entirely by Certified Peer Support Specialists, individuals who bring lived experience with recovery from trauma, substance use, and mental health challenges. Using those experiences, Sunrise creates welcoming spaces where individuals can receive support, access resources, and build meaningful connections without fear of judgment or stigma.

“Our programs are designed around a simple question: ‘What did I need when I was at my most vulnerable?’” shared Sunrise leadership. “By answering that question, we can help remove barriers that often keep people isolated and disconnected from support.”

Givens Communities’ sponsorship helps support Sunrise’s annual conference, which provides education, networking opportunities, and professional development for peer support specialists and recovery allies throughout Western North Carolina. Funding also helps make conference attendance possible through scholarship opportunities, ensuring that individuals seeking recovery support can participate regardless of financial circumstances.

The partnership aligns closely with Givens Communities’ values of belonging, dignity, and compassionate care. As a Recovery Friendly Workplace, Givens Communities recognizes that recovery is a reality for many individuals and families. A recovery-friendly workplace actively supports employees in maintaining health and wellness, reduces stigma surrounding mental health and substance use challenges, and creates a culture where people feel safe seeking help when needed.

Sunrise Community for Recovery and Wellness offers a wide range of programs that may benefit individuals throughout the region, including:

• Drop-In Recovery Centers that provide activities, support groups, and community connections.
• One-on-one peer support available in person or by phone.
• A Problem Gambling Program for individuals experiencing gambling-related challenges.
• A peer-run Respite House offering short-term, 24-hour support for individuals experiencing mental health challenges.
• Resource navigation and recovery services that help individuals overcome barriers to wellness and independence.

“Both of our organizations believe that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion,” said Joey Abel, Givens Communities Director of Impact and representative of the Givens Foundation. “By working together, we can expand access to support, reduce isolation, and strengthen the communities we serve.”

As Givens Communities continues to grow its team, the organization welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and experiences, including those in recovery, to explore meaningful career opportunities. Being a Recovery Friendly Workplace reflects Givens’ commitment to fostering a culture of support, understanding, and inclusion where team members are empowered to thrive personally and professionally. To learn more about employment opportunities and current openings, visit the Givens Communities careers page at: https://givenscommunities.org/careers/.

Learn more about Givens’ partnerships and impact in the community at givensfoundation.org/news.