How the LGBTQIA2S+ Community Finds Strength and Healing through Inclusive Support Systems

In our latest episode, hosts Peter and Julie attended the Out In Recovery Conference, a groundbreaking event dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA2S+ individuals on their recovery journeys. Organized by True Colors Recovery and led by Executive Director Amanda Ireland-Esquivel, the conference provided a vibrant platform for discussing the unique challenges and triumphs within the LGBTQIA2S+ recovery community.
  • "Creating safe spaces for LGBTQIA2S+ individuals in recovery is not just beneficial; it's essential."
  • —Amanda Ireland-Esquivel
​A Safe Haven for Authentic Conversations
The conference opened with Amanda Ireland-Esquivel sharing True Colors Recovery's mission and their latest housing initiative aimed at providing safe spaces for LGBTQIA2S+ individuals in recovery. Her insights set the tone for a day filled with authentic conversations and shared experiences.
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  • "Embracing my Two-Spirit identity has been a cornerstone of my healing journey."
  • —Kristina Padilla​
Personal Stories of Resilience
Attendees heard from Camille Esquivel, who shared her personal recovery journey, highlighting the importance of community support. Kristina Padilla, founder of Rainbow Global Collective, discussed the significance of Two-Spirit identity and cultural heritage in the healing process. These narratives underscored the diverse paths to recovery and the strength found in embracing one's true self.
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Community Initiatives and Support Systems
The conference also featured discussions on various community initiatives. Elizabeth from Oxford House detailed her experiences within their supportive housing system, while Lacey Gillette, DEI Manager at Fora Health, highlighted ongoing diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. Val from Clackamas Outreach shared insights into community engagement strategies, emphasizing the importance of outreach in recovery support.
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  • "Music has the power to heal wounds that words cannot touch."
  • —Dante Mathis
The Healing Power of Music and Physical Fitness
Dante Mathis from Harmony Academy spoke about the role of music and mentorship in recovery, illustrating how creative outlets can serve as powerful tools for healing. Izzy Alvarado, founder of Go The Distance, shared how physical fitness initiatives are helping individuals maintain sobriety and build resilience.
A Collective Commitment to Inclusive Recovery
The Out In Recovery Conference highlighted the collective commitment to creating inclusive recovery support systems. Through education, community support, and the creation of safe spaces, attendees found healing and encouragement for their recovery journeys. The event underscored the importance of embracing diversity and fostering environments where all individuals feel seen, heard, and supported.
#OutInRecovery #LGBTQRecovery #TrueColorsRecovery #RainbowGlobalCollective #HarmonyAcademy #GoTheDistance #SUDTreatment #Inclusive

Show Notes:

​Title: RRP Extra Episode 36.1: Embracing Diversity at the Out In Recovery Conference
Presenters: Peter and Julie (Hosts), Amanda Ireland-Esquivel (Executive Director, True Colors Recovery), Camille Esquivel, Nancy, Kristina Padilla ( Founder, Rainbow Global Collective), Lacey Gillette (DEI Manager, Fora Health), Val (Clackamas Outreach), Hope, Trent, Elizabeth (Oxford House), Dante Mathis (Harmony Academy), Izzy Alvarado (Founder, Go The Distance)
Length: 1 hour 40 minutes
Links to Websites:
Key Points:
  • [00:02:15] Introduction to the Out In Recovery Conference, an inclusive space for LGBTQIA2S+ individuals in recovery.
  • [00:10:30] Amanda Ireland-Esquivel discusses True Colors Recovery's mission and new housing initiative.
  • [00:18:45] Camille Esquivel shares personal recovery experiences and community support.
  • [00:25:00] Kristina Padilla speaks on Two-Spirit identity and cultural heritage in recovery.
  • [00:35:20] Insights from Hope and Trent, members of the Real Recovery home group.
  • [00:42:00] Elizabeth from Oxford House discusses her journey and Oxford’s recovery support system.
  • [00:50:15] Lacey Gillette highlights DEI initiatives at Fora Health.
  • [01:00:00] Val from Clackamas Outreach talks about outreach efforts and community engagement.
  • [01:10:30] Dante Mathis discusses his work with Harmony Academy, focusing on music and mentorship in recovery.
  • [01:20:00] Izzy Alvarado shares insights on promoting recovery through physical fitness with Go The Distance.
  • [01:30:00] Closing remarks emphasizing the importance of inclusive recovery support services.
Summary: In this special episode, hosts Peter and Julie attend the Out In Recovery Conference, an event dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA2S+ individuals in recovery. Organized by True Colors Recovery and led by Amanda Ireland-Esquivel, the conference brings together a vibrant community to discuss barriers and successes in recovery for LGBTQIA2S+ individuals. The episode features personal stories of resilience, diversity, and the transformative power of community, including insights from Kristina Padilla on Two-Spirit identity, Lacey Gillette on DEI initiatives at Fora Health, Dante Mathis on the role of music and mentorship in recovery through Harmony Academy, and Izzy Alvarado on promoting recovery through physical fitness with Go The Distance.
Conclusion: The Out In Recovery Conference underscores the importance of inclusive recovery support for LGBTQIA2S+ individuals. Through education, community support, and safe spaces, attendees found healing and encouragement for their recovery journeys.
Hashtags: #OutInRecovery #LGBTQRecovery #TrueColorsRecovery #RainbowGlobalCollective #HarmonyAcademy #GoTheDistance #SUDTreatment #InclusiveRecovery
Mentions: @TrueColorsRecovery, @OutInRecovery, @RainbowGlobalCollective, @HarmonyAcademy, @MiraclesClub, @OxfordHouse, @ForaHealth, @GoTheDistance