Our Mission & Vision

Voices of Recovery San Mateo County (VOR) is a nonprofit (501©(3)) peer-led organization founded in 2010. Its mission is to advocate for and support the recovery community, specifically individuals overcoming drug and/or alcohol addictions. VOR believes that hope is a powerful catalyst for recovery, which can be sparked by leadership, peer support, and the lived experiences of those who have successfully overcome addictions.

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Despite operating on a modest budget, VOR has achieved remarkable success in helping individuals achieve and maintain recovery through Wellness Recovery Action Planning (WRAP®). WRAP® is an evidence-based practice that empowers individuals to understand, achieve, and sustain their wellness and recovery goals. VOR’s dedicated team provide support to prevent relapse, sustain long-term recovery, and assist family members affected by addiction.

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Each year, VOR offers hope to over 3,500 individuals and helps create employment opportunities within the recovery community. VOR engages in outreach to promote addiction-free lifestyles through health fairs, presentations, agency partnerships, social media, and education about drugs and alcohol. The organization maintains stable partnerships with the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), San Mateo County’s Health System Behavioral Health and Recovery Services, and other public agencies and nonprofit organizations. VOR is also an active participant in local and national initiatives.

VOR coordinates efforts with existing alcohol and drug providers, other recovery groups (both 12-step and non-12-step), faith-based organizations, and students studying alcohol and drug addiction, continually expanding its network.

Our History

In 2008, San Mateo County (SMC) commissioned a needs assessment to explore how peer-led recovery services could reduce service gaps and complement the formal treatment system. The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence chapter in neighboring Santa Clara County, Voices United, was contracted to conduct the study.

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The needs assessment included a survey of SMC clients, individuals in recovery, family members, and addiction professionals. Respondents represented diverse regions of the county (south, central, north, East Palo Alto, and coast side) and varied in race and ethnicity: 38% Caucasian, 20% Hispanic, 19% African American, 9% Asian/Pacific Islander, and 13% other.

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The study identified three primary needs: (1) support for those new to recovery, (2) support for those in long-term recovery, and (3) support for those affected by others’ addictions, including family members.

Following the study, a steering committee of clients, family members, and addiction professionals was formed in the fall of 2008. The committee developed specific recommendations for a peer support center, including short- and long-term goals, staffing, and the committee’s ongoing role. As a result, the Voices of Recovery center opened in a temporary, donated location in central county on October 30, 2009.

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VORSMC serves all adults with recovery needs and interests, as well as their significant others. In response to specific needs and gaps, VORSMC has engaged in several collaborative efforts, including mental health, trauma-informed care, criminal justice, and healthcare integration.