2023 board candidates

Troy Van Denover

What pronouns do you use?

He/Him

Where will you be located while serving on the Board?

Near Wilkes-Barre Pennsylvania

What is it about the mission of Recovery Dharma Global that excites you?

I am excited by the gradual liberation of people from the unskillful behaviors that result from trauma and cycles of harm.

What experience do you have related to the work of serving on the Board and related to the mission of the organization?

I have participated in the local sangha of the San Jose and Bay area in California. I worked on groups with Refuge Recovery at their annual conferences in 2016 and 2017 before I became involved in the transition to Recovery Dharma in 2019.

What connections do you have with the Recovery Dharma community at large?

I currently facilitate the Tuesday meeting at New Roots in Wilkes-Barre. I facilitated at two meetings in San Jose California for several years in several positions before the pandemic.

How will you use your skills, knowledge, and experiences to contribute to increasing diversity, inclusivity, equity, and accessibility?

I will use my ability to listen and learn to further my understanding of intersectionality to increase my ability to support and increase IDEA.

How much time do you have to commit to the organization?

I should have 12 to 15 hours a month to commit to the organization.

Is there a role that you hope to play as a member of the Board? 

I hope to be a supportive member of the board and to find my best fit position with the other members of the Board.

Is there something you hope to achieve while serving with the Board?

I would hope to increase the reach and improvement of the organization while serving with the Board.

Jim Sacca

What is it about the mission of Recovery Dharma Global that excites you?

Recovery Dharma has helped me to change the way I think. Through years of being in and out of 12 Step fellowships and being told to “change the way” I think, Recovery Dharma has provided me the tools needed. In addition to my substance addiction, I am now able to recognize other process addictions and codependent behaviors, and work on them as well.

What experience do you have related to the work of serving on the Board and related to the mission of the organization?

I co-founded the first in-person Recovery Dharma meeting in the city of Philadelphia approximately two years ago. This entailed gathering literature for the binder and readings from the RD website, securing a location, and establishing a social media presence. We started with 3 people and have grown to 30+ members, we continue to meet every Sunday and expanded to Thursdays as well.

What connections do you have with the Recovery Dharma community at large?

Our South Philadelphia meetings inspired members to start other meetings in the surrounding areas. As of today, there are five in-person meetings in the Philadelphia and South Jersey area.

How will you use your skills, knowledge, and experiences to contribute to increasing diversity, inclusivity, equity, and accessibility?

I treat people the same way I would like to be treated. The disease of addiction does not discriminate. People of all races, religions, sexual orientation, and sexual identity are affected by addiction and unhealthy habits. I’ve grown and matured by focusing on our similarities and how we can help each other, instead of what makes us different. Members of the South Philly Sangha can vouch that I try hard to keep our weekly meeting facilitator’s diverse – male, female, LGBTQ, and equally represented. I’ve learned that many minorities, gay, and transgender people do not feel welcome in other fellowships. I want everyone to know that they matter, and they are important to us.

Is there a role that you hope to play as a member of the Board?

I want to represent the RD movement per the Core Intentions, keep it peer-led, and maintain recovery and Buddhist principles first. I’ve seen firsthand the results of meetings becoming the ideology of one specific person taking precedence over the group’s primary purpose. My role is to remain plugged in to the Global Sangha, remain humble and teachable, and do my part to help others.

Is there something you hope to achieve while serving with the Board?

I just want to give back to Recovery Dharma what it has given to me. The RD program continues to grow and gain momentum. I watched our meeting grow from 3 people to 30, from one in-person meeting to two, to three more in surrounding areas, started by members who originated from our Sangha. Our referrals started via word-of-mouth, to online exposure, to now rehabs sending us new members. I want to contribute to this growth and help others remain free from the suffering of addiction.

Thomas Tran

What pronouns do you use?

 They/Them/Theirs

Where will you be located while serving on the Board?

 Unceded territory of the Ohlone peoples, in an area called San Jose California

What is it about the mission of Recovery Dharma Global that excites you?

I’ve been in organizations that discussed Diversity, Equity Inclusion and Accessibility, but rarely did they follow through. On the other hand, I’ve watched Recovery Dharma really lean into the difficult things, to grow and change, towards the betterment of marginalized groups—which results in more safety for *everyone*.

For instance: Our book was made in a rush. Accidentally, a cultural acknowledgement to Buddhism’s heritage was left out of our originally published book. Many BIPOCs expressed feelings of harm, appropriation, and being forgotten—BIPOCs whose histories are still being erased by the ongoing legacy of European imperialism. This harm was communicated at last year’s summit, and RDG responded by creating an official Heritage Statement.  To me, it’s an exciting and beautiful thing to feel that our voices can create positive change.

What experience do you have related to the work of serving on the Board and related to the mission of the organization?

[RD Communications and RD Literature Dissemination]

• With my joy for writing and graphic design, I created a newcomer-focused tri-fold RD pamphlet. It reads more like a conversation with a friend, and is aesthetically pleasant. It’s currently in use by a few sanghas. (at http://pamphlet.rd.rocks)
• I used my skills in crowdfunding, interviewing, project management, and audio/video production to produce a Female RD Audiobook in 2021. I noticed that we had 3 RD Audiobooks read by Men, but 0 by Women. Many don’t feel safe with a male voice and accessibility is very important to me. I was highly motivated to release an unofficial audiobook. I crowdfunded, auditioned, commissioned, and project-managed a BIPOC Female narrator to read our book. Once done, I released downloadable MP3s, made it streamable, and published YouTube videos that follow the reading (like a reading-along). (at http://videobook.rd.rocks)
• I used my skills in design layout and data organization to release the dyslexia-accessible RD book. A dear friend said she wished there was a version of our book that was dyslexia-friendly. Usingan editable version of the RD book, I replaced the Serif font with a dyslexia-friendly font. We shared it on Facebook. Months later, I was surprised to hear that RD Phoenix AZ made physical copies of this!—if you want a dyslexia-friendly printed paperback, contact Steve Whitten. (at http://files.rd.rocks)
• I used my skills in PhotoShop and my studies of Thích ÑhátHành and Nonviolent Communication to design a variety of helpful bookmarks, including an RD Buddhist Cheatsheet. These were really helpful in my early RD journey. I like to share this with other newcomers as well. (at http://cheatsheet.rd.rocks)
• I’ve been using my skills in graphic design, my joy of laser-engraving, and my enthusiasm of inquiry to mail out wooden Inquiry Completion Celebration Chips freely. Because I think, for a group of addicts to have gathered, week after week, month after month, doing the really hard inner work, and following through to completion… is quite an important moment.(at http://freechips.rd.rocks)

[RDG Official Volunteering]

2020-2022 Meetings—Meeting Spreadsheet Administrator:

• I used my skills in spreadsheets, organization, and email communications to be of service in maintaining the meeting list 365 days/year. Replied to meetings@recoverydharma.org emails in a very friendly, kindly, and timely manner. This includes creating an [ Affinity] tab, which increased accessibility for marginalized identities (BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, Women) and special interest groups (Eating Disorder, Family Support, Mental Health, and many more.) (at http://affinity.rd.rocks)

 2020 Summit—Swag & Fundraising Director:

• I used my skills in graphic design, color palettes, humor, and fiscal management to make/sell RD shirts. We raised +$3000! (shirts at http://fundraiser.rd.rocks)

2020 Summit—Free Carepackage Peer-leader:

• With help from wise friends, I applied my skills in crafting, printing, jewelry-making, and bulk mailing to create a sense of “tactile connection” for Summit participants during COVID. I got to spend the +$3000 (above) to make and mail out 300 free carepackages. They were really well-**received** . Each contained fun & cool things for the inner child. RD Buttons, Impermanent Lotus Tattoos, Buddhist Bracelets, Bookmarks, more. (at: https://bit.ly/40nLXag)

All of the above was facilitated by my geeky technical skills:

• Writing / Graphic Designing / Organization / Shirt Designing / Fundraising / Laser Engraving

What connections do you have with the Recovery Dharma community at large?

I am a founding sangha member of the RD BIPOC Sanghas and 3 years later, I’m still at the core, facilitating and building the sangha. My sangha siblings have helped me open my eyes to delve deeper into embracing my own identity as a Person of Color. At Sunday’s “Under the Bodhi Tree” meeting, we’ve created a sanctuary for BIPOCs that is loving, supportive, gentle, and welcoming. It’s amazing how much an opening statement can set the mood for an entire meeting. (at http://statement.rdbipoc.org)

 What’s the first process addiction mentioned in the Recovery Dharma Book? …If you said food or codependency, guess again! It’s sex. Sex is such an important topic of suffering that even 2500 years ago Shakyamuni Buddha dedicated a whole precept to it. So my friends and I co-founded a safe space, where we discuss themes of lust and love without fear of shaming or gossipping. We named it True Intimacy, to help keep our eyes on the beautiful goal: we want true connection and intimacy. We now have 4 meetings per week.

I’m the creator & owner of www.RD.rocks. RD rocks is like my own pocket-sized version of RD Friends Act! I get joy when sharing knowledge and empowering others. I thrive on mudita. You may notice that I make all my files editable. It makes me happy to see you empowered to make your own versions of these things, so you can meet your needs. (example of an editable template at http://slides.rd.rocks)

I am a sangha member of my local RD South Bay Area Sangha in California.

I’ve completed 12+ Inquiry Circles, I have completed the inquiries with 50+ individuals, and have developed many spiritual friendships. As part of this, I created an Inquiry Circle Startup Kit to share our experiences of forming Inquiry Circles, in hopes that it might be helpful for others (at http://inquirykit.rd.rocks). I also made my inquiry script public (it started with a 3-minute sit) (http://inquiry.rd.rocks), shared some basic peacekeeping rules and named it “Core Guidelines” in the spirit of our core intentions (http://guidelines.rd.rocks) and lastly shared a very well-tested, nicely-paced 20-week schedule (http://inquirysheet.rd.rocks). Soon and sure enough, everyone was asking about inquiry circles so they could start their stepwor—, oops. I meant Buddhist Inquiries. 🙂

How will you use your skills, knowledge, and experiences to contribute to increasing diversity, inclusivity, equity, and accessibility?

I’m Transgender, BIPOC, and I identify as a Love & Lust Dependent. These identifications are frequently under-represented at the decision-making table. My lived experience has provided me with firsthand knowledge with the uphill challenges that marginalized communities face.

I hope to use my communication skills to amplify the voices of those who are often overlooked or silenced. This includes those with affinities/identities/process addictions that are underrepresented, due to shame, fear, or any reason.

I understand the significance of keeping the peace with positive relations in a group setting. When it comes to decision-making, it’s too easy for passionate people to have misunderstandings which lead to temporary but painful conflicts, especially as we each come with our trauma. I’ve learned the importance of 1) assuming good intentions, 2) reminding my teammates of our buddha nature, and 3) that we are *all* unskillful at times.

Peacekeeping with positive relations is the most important skill I can contribute to the Board of Directors.

How much time do you have to commit to the organization?

I have 40 hours/month to commit to RDG—(that’s how much I am currently commit to RD.)

Is there a role that you hope to play as a member of the Board?

Listening to the feelings and needs of the community, *especially* to the collective communities that are used to being invisible, inaudible, or invalidated. I wish to fill a role where I can accurately communicate (or facilitate the communication) of the community’s feelings and needs to the Board.

Is there something you hope to achieve while serving with the Board?

Absolutely.

1) Empower you.

I hope to empower your sangha to create the things we all are recreating over and over (e.g. meeting flyers, tri-fold pamphlets), and create Customizable DIY Templates that make it suuuuper-easy for you to make your own sangha’s version. (For example, many kinds of these: http://flyer.rd.rocks, or http://logo.rd.rocks with better instructions.)

2) Inquiry Circle matching system.

At the 2021 Summit, I wrote a motion asking RDG for support for this. This time, I hope to achieve the creation of a Global community Inquiry Match-up System (e.g. bulletin board—something, anything!) that someone/circle oversees, where any member (who commits to completing inquiries) who is looking for an Inquiry Circle can, for example, 1) state their needs, 2) look for others whose needs match up, or 3) get randomly matched-up. In a couple years, we’ll have produced scores of Mentors.

Madi Nitzky

What pronouns do you use?

She/Her

Where will you be located while serving on the Board?

Philadelphia, PA

What is it about the mission of Recovery Dharma Global that excites you?

Peer Led: It is our peers, friends, and members who keep our RD Sangha’s going. It is crucial that we gain insight from as many members as possible when making decisions. Allowing members, new and old, to have a say in decision making is what cultivates commitment and sustained engagement.

Community: I have been involved in community-based programs since I was young going to overnight camp. I have seen the power that community and group environments have on an individuals ability to feel seen, safe, heard, and heal.

Buddhist Teachings: The Buddhist teachings allow a guideline for which we can continue living sober, compassionate, peaceful, and purpose-filled lives.

Empowerment: Sustained and prolonged recovery isn’t about giving our power away. It’s about realizing and uncover the great power that is within us to change and heal. Empowerment is the foundation of ALL growth.

What experience do you have related to the work of serving on the Board and related to the mission of the organization?

I previously worked for a community-based non profit. I served as one of six Support Staff, who reported to the Board of Directors. We worked extremely closely with the board and I gained experience attending meetings and working with a non profit board. At these meetings we made decisions regarding budgets, rebranding, website changes, strategic planning, etc.

This non profit was also Peer Led. We called it “staff run”. Most decisions we made about the organization had to be made in a consensus model. I constantly had to think of how decisions would affect our volunteers as well as the community, which is the same perspective I would be taking into this role.

Additionally, since January 2021 I have also helped with the South Philly Sangha RD meeting here in Philadelphia. Although the meeting had a solid foundation upon my arrival, I quickly assumed the position of Secretary and have provided meeting minutes, flyers, group chats, input, and other helpful assistance to the Sangha.

What connections do you have with the Recovery Dharma community at large?

I have connections within the Philadelphia Recovery Dharma community – specifically South Philly Sangha. I also have some loose connections with nearby Sangha’s as well.

Since January of 2022 I have been working with the current board (mainly Randy, Kris, Lori, and Joel) to help plan for the Annual RD Summit that will be in Philadelphia this year!

How will you use your skills, knowledge, and experiences to contribute to increasing diversity, inclusivity, equity, and accessibility?

Recovery and the need for safe communal spaces is not limited to one race, gender, ethnicity, etc. In order to reach as many people as possible, we must put ourselves individuals shoes and have candid conversations about how to meet them where they are at.

How much time do you have to commit to the organization?

5 hours a month?

Is there a role that you hope to play as a member of the Board? 

I hope to be a support to anyone that is in need. Specifically I would love to spread the word about Recovery Dharma and increase its visibility in a variety of ways as well as strengthen mentorship programs within the Sangha’s.

Is there something you hope to achieve while serving with the Board?

This answer is ever changing and evolving.

Currently:

– I hope to assist Sangha’s with strengthening their mentorship program.

– I hope to provide additional Buddhist resources for those to continue their Buddhist-based recovery journey.

– I hope to cultivate strong connections and support systems.

– I hope to increase awareness of RD.

– I hope to learn even more about the Recovery community and how to continue to provide welcoming and safe environments for those that keep refuge.

Tracie Story

What pronouns do you use?

 she/her

Where will you be located while serving on the Board?

 Gold Coast, Queensland/Australia

Please upload a recent photo of yourself.

Upload a Service Resume (any experience that you may have that relates to service on the RDG Board)

Reasons for running for the board

What is it about the mission of Recovery Dharma Global that excites you?

I firmly believe that people who serve in any capacity do so for the betterment of the cause they are serving, and the beings that are involved, and I believe this is reflected in the RD Global Mission. I’m also dedicated to increasing RD’s presence on the international level, beginning with my own country, to truly give people in Recovery an alternative and/or complementary option to dominant narratives of recovery.

What experience do you have related to the work of serving on the Board and related to the mission of the organization?

Well, I’ve been an Addict and am now in recovery. While being primarily Buddhist focused, I integrate several different recovery models to create the best path for myself. Alongside this, I have spent over 35 years working alongside people as they navigate the challenges of life. I have volunteered in several different organizations, often taking key roles such as secretary, vice-president and treasurer. I have many different formal qualifications in a range of body-mind practices and have run workshops, retreats, trainings in a range of settings, including university level.

But more than this, I have life experience in ageing, sickness and death, that has helped me integrate these learnings into my personal “wisdom”. I know that the only way forward is through collective action, making sure that marginalized voices are heard. And frankly, I’m excited by the potential of the times we are living in, while also being afraid that we will, “mess” (polite word) it up (I’d like to quote Ru Paul here but will refrain).

What connections do you have with the Recovery Dharma community at large?

I came to Recovery Dharma around 2020, initially with the Charlotte North Carolina Sangha (online) and then with what is now known as Recovery Dharma Australia.
In the Charlotte Sangha, I often take the service role of monthly facilitator (aka tator), and regularly lead the Meditation and/or Topic. I am active in the Business Meetings and was one of the lead instigators of the “Spring and Fall Meditation Series”, an online training series run twice a year to provide experience in the fundamentals of meditation in Spring, and then a dive into deeper topics in Autumn.
In the Australian Sangha, I am the primary host for the Monday meeting, as well as one of the administrators on our social media forums. Again, in this Sangha, I am active in the Business meetings and in being a “wise friend” when members reach out..

How will you use your skills, knowledge, and experiences to contribute to increasing diversity, inclusivity, equity, and accessibility?

In whatever way is needed or is best. I have been privileged in my life, and also been marginalized due to gender, age, and ethnicity, though I do not equal my experience to those of others. My mother, despite her “isms” born of her age and time, taught me by example that everyone and every being deserves fair and equal opportunity, and I have taken this into my personal and professional life.

How much time do you have to commit to the organization?

I have as much time as is required, depending on my health requirements. I was due to start a new job in February after a two-year training break, and was then diagnosed with Colon Cancer. I know that my addictive behaviour has more than likely contributed to this and am so grateful for a mindfulness and compassion practice that helps me to truly see it as a chance to see what is most important in my life. Helping other people on their recovery journey is one of my main goals.

Is there a role that you hope to play as a member of the Board?

I would like to help make RD Global, truly Global … I am also very interested in expanding the Mentor and Wise Friends resources, research and being on the Events Committee.

Is there something you hope to achieve while serving with the Board?

Oh, wow. so many things. contributing to something bigger than myself that is universal and so needed, meeting more like-minded people, learning, helping, hopefully bringing some joy and fun to such a serious experience … if one being benefits from my efforts, I’ll be a happy camper (is that an Australian saying, or universal?)

Bryant Belarmino

What pronouns do you use?

He / Him

Where will you be located while serving on the Board?

Los Angeles, California

What is it about the mission of Recovery Dharma Global that excites you?

Recovery Dharma is about empowerment – helping people find their inner strength and purpose in recovery. Supporting Recovery Dharma Global will give people the opportunity to learn about who they are and what they are capable of with kindness and compassion. My recovery really took off when I found a sangha that made me feel welcome and safe. I want to help foster the same experience for others so they can really tap into their potential to awaken and recover.

What experience do you have related to the work of serving on the Board and related to the mission of the organization?

Experienced in:

1. Pending Certified Mindfulness Meditation Teacher and dedicated mindfulness practitioner
2. Buddhist based recovery programs since 2018 (Refuge Recovery and now Recovery Dharma)
3. Mentoring
4. Governance experience: developing and implementing policies, procedures, communication, and training materials.
5. Public Speaking
6. Leading projects
7. Conducting outreach and participating in social events
8. Social Media

What connections do you have with the Recovery Dharma community at large?

When we were Refuge Recovery, participated in the local Los Angeles Intersangha, start one meeting, facilitated three different meetings, and actively advertised our program at recovery events.

Have been co-facilitating the Woodland Hills, CA., Sangha since 2019. We were a Refuge Recovery Sangha that switched to Recovery Dharma when we returned in-person in 2022.

Was a co-teacher for a Recovery Dharma Recovery Retreat in LA December 2022.

Helping to re-start the Los Angeles Intersangha in 2023.

Manage the RD Los Angeles MeetUp account and am one of the administrators of the Facebook and WhatsUp groups.

How will you use your skills, knowledge, and experiences to contribute to increasing diversity, inclusivity, equity, and accessibility?

As a member of the sangha, I believe that creating safe places for people to express who they are helps increase diversity, inclusivity, equity, and accessibility. I would love to help sanghas create safe spaces through:

1. Creating and leading training sessions.
2. Reaching out to different communities to share the dharma and the program.
3. Invite people from different communities to share their stories and experiences.

How much time do you have to commit to the organization?

At least 10 hours a month – more if necessary for planned events.

Is there a role that you hope to play as a member of the Board?

Open to assisting the board in any capacity. Interested in Communications, Membership, and Event committees.

Is there something you hope to achieve while serving with the Board?

Give back to the community.

Help others share their stories – put a face to how the dharma comes alive in us and in our recovery.

Create new materials – books, podcasts, talks, meditations.

Reach out to new communities and help them start sanghas.

Shad Graham

What pronouns do you use?

 They / Them

Where will you be located while serving on the Board?

Birmingham, Alabama

What is it about the mission of Recovery Dharma Global that excites you?

I am excited about RDG’s mission of providing peer-led support and empowerment to those suffering from all forms of addiction. My experience has shown my how important personal empowerment is to healing from addiction and trauma. It is also a welcome breath of fresh air to find space that is non-shaming and truly values and celebrates diversity and inclusion. Being both queer and non-binary, I appreciate that diversity/inclusion is built into the fiber of RDG.

What experience do you have related to the work of serving on the Board and related to the mission of the organization?

I have served on an arts non-profit Board of Directors for several years before working for said non-profit. Both opportunities allowed me to gain insight in board service as well as non-profit work. In 12 step recovery, I have served as meeting facilitators for various types of 12 step and RD meetings as well as a Group Service Representative position for NA. Throughout both my non-profit and recovery volunteer experience, I have learned that effective communication, community, and the value of practice and principles have been instrumental in my success.

What connections do you have with the Recovery Dharma community at large?

I have volunteered to assist RDG with any necessary volunteer opportunities. Recently, I attended an RDG communications group meeting and had the opportunity to connect with existing board members. Have also attended recent Town Hall meetings on diversity and inclusion.

How will you use your skills, knowledge, and experiences to contribute to increasing diversity, inclusivity, equity, and accessibility?

I am an active participant in my local LGBTQIA+ RD group and continue to outreach to numerous local LGBTQIA+ and/or LGBTQIA+ ally organizations to share our RD offerings and ways that we might be able to offer community and support.

How much time do you have to commit to the organization?

15 hours a week

Is there a role that you hope to play as a member of the Board?

I hope to be a member of the board that can offer celebrating our work as well as offering a different perspective on opportunities that might arise.

Is there something you hope to achieve while serving with the Board?

To gain more insight and connection with the RDG community and be of service however possible.

Natalya Fearnley

What pronouns do you use?

 She / Her

Where will you be located while serving on the Board?

Denver, Colorado

What is it about the mission of Recovery Dharma Global that excites you?

I have been a member of my local sangha, Recovery Dharma Denver, since March 2022 and it is an understatement to say that participating with my sangha as changed my life. The concepts of Buddhism go hand-in-hand with the fundamental needs of a person in recovery. What I love most about Recovery Dharma is that the core concepts recognize that every human being can find themself in a state of “addiction” (i.e. craving or aversion) because of the inherent design of being human. We all experience suffering in life, in ways that are both big and small, and our natural human-ness causes us to want to resist suffering. Similarly, when we experience pleasure, it is natural for us to want to grasp onto it in order to make it last longer. Any level of this aversion or craving experience can cause pain and dissatisfaction. One does not have to be a “hardcore addict” to know the truth of this pain. Once you recognize that you are causing the pain to deepen by your own actions of gripping or avoiding, you gain the power to reduce your suffering by learning to let go and not try to numb yourself to negative experiences or hold on tighter to positive ones. I believe each one of us needs to recover; not only those of us who have become toxically addicted to one substance or process or another. We are all in need of recognizing our habits of craving and aversion and learning practices that allow these habits to loosen their hold on us. The mission of Recovery Dharma Global is accessible to every human, no matter their personal struggles. I would love to be a part of spreading this powerful practice to any person who is interested in pursuing it.

What experience do you have related to the work of serving on the Board and related to the mission of the organization?

I have been working with my local sangha as the social events coordinator, newsletter writer and distributor, and website editor for the past 6 months. My work with this sangha has helped me grow my capacity to communicate with seasoned members who have many years of sobriety under their belt as well as new members who are in need of guidance and interested in learning about what Recovery Dharma has to offer them. I have also worked for many years as a freelance editor and writer and have a natural flair for editing and writing. I would be very interested in offering my services to help with the distribution, writing, and editing of Recovery Dharma texts, publications, and website(s). I have been volunteering with The Phoenix since August 2022 as a yoga instructor and my ability to teach yoga and meditation has blossomed greatly since I committed to my path of recovery. I have gained much insight into breathwork, somatic connection to mental health, and how to offer these concepts in a simple and understandable way to newcomers. I relish in finding concise ways to offer age-old wisdom to people who have no previous experience with yoga, meditation, breathwork, or Buddhism and have received consistent feedback that my style of speaking and teaching has allowed my students to access a deep feeling of content and gift them new ways to connect to their own spirituality.

What connections do you have with the Recovery Dharma community at large? 

I am the social events for my local sangha, Recovery Dharma Denver. I also write and distribute the newsletter and maintain the group contact list. I attend the monthly local sangha business meeting to discuss ways to integrate our communities across the Front Range (from Fort Collins to Colorado Springs) and plan events, website updates, edits to and distribution of materials, and more. I attend a weekly meeting and serve as a main point of contact for newcomers, answering questions and directing them to the book and other materials, and giving them ways to get more connected with the sangha. I often serve as the facilitator of the meeting, choosing a relevant meditation and reading to guide the group. I have been a long-time student of the Dharma and always have a book, meditation, teacher, or app to recommend to sangha members, new and long-term alike.

How will you use your skills, knowledge, and experiences to contribute to increasing diversity, inclusivity, equity, and accessibility?

I like to lead by example. I think it is important to ask questions of those within the community who have experienced marginalization, harassment, and discrimination and learn from them how I can respect and protect populations who feel at risk of this harm. I have helped adapt our local script to include a reminder to introduce yourself at meetings using your name and your preferred pronouns. Since I identify as female and appear outwardly feminine, I have not had issues with people misrepresenting my identity in this way. Furthermore, I have discovered that I am uncomfortable and somewhat confused by non-binary gender identity and pronoun use. This self-reflection has led me to examine my core beliefs about gender and identity and taught me that I need to turn to my non-binary community members to openly ask for guidance on how to be more supportive and understanding of their requirements to feel safe within a community space. Through opening up about my confusion and asking for help to become more understanding, I have learned from my non-binary sangha friends that it is important for me as a facilitator and group participant to offer my pronouns even though they are the ones I would be expected to use based on my physical appearance. After these conversations, I started introducing myself using my pronouns. I think it is helpful to write scripts that members can use to speak to difficult subjects, like protecting inclusivity and providing a safe space for members to speak about anything that might happen that makes them feel threatened or unsafe. It is important to be vocal about the organization’s value for inclusivity and diversity and emphasize that discrimination will not be tolerated and remind members that they are safe to speak up if they ever experience discrimination.

How much time do you have to commit to the organization? 

I am happy to commit at least 10 hours per month to the organization. Currently, I am working part-time so I can commit much of my free time to my service work with Recovery Dharma and The Phoenix, writing a blog about mindfulness in recovery, and submitting poetry and other writing to various publications.

Is there a role that you hope to play as a member of the Board? 

I am particularly interested in offering my services as a writer and editor for Recovery Dharma publications, social media posts, and the website. I would also be happy to serve as an events coordinator and maintain group contact lists to foster connections between sanghas in different areas. If there is a demand for such a thing, I would be interested in translating materials into Spanish to allow Spanish-speaking communities to start their own meetings. I would also be interested in contacting different speakers or professionals who would be willing to contribute their knowledge and services to Recovery Dharma events or meetings.

Is there something you hope to achieve while serving with the Board?

I would like to foster more connections between different local sanghas. Many people in the Denver sangha have spoken about how they feel disconnected from other sanghas in our area, so we have worked as a group to connect to other sanghas up and down the Front Range. However, there is still a sentiment that each group approaches the practice and the mission somewhat differently, and there is a general lack of a feeling of unity. Many members, both new and established, seem to feel confused about the core message or mission of Recovery Dharma. I would like to be able to offer more outreach and materials across the country so that Recovery Dharma is more accessible and unified and seen as a more established alternative to other recovery groups and programs.

I would also like to bolster the “wise friends/mentors” program. Sponsorship has been such an integral part of AA and many people come to Recovery Dharma because the practices/message of AA does not work for them. They wish to find a similar type of support as they would through the sponsorship program with AA, but the mentorship structure is not very robust in the RD community, at least not within the local sanghas in Colorado. I would like to find a way to increase opportunities for mentorship in the community at large and connect people with a mentor/mentee when they are looking for that type of connection.

John Mullenix

What pronouns do you use?

He/Him/His

Where will you be located while serving on the Board?

Tuscaloosa, AL

What is it about the mission of Recovery Dharma Global that excites you?

What attracted me to RD is that it’s a program of self-empowerment with an emphasis on growing through community and service to others. I have an affinity towards the Buddhist-inspired approach toward recovery which emphasizes love for all beings and learning to live a life free from addiction and suffering. The emphasis of inclusion and diversity are also important to me as I feel that understanding and being accepting of other cultures is necessary for personal growth and the growth of others.

What experience do you have related to the work of serving on the Board and related to the mission of the organization?

As a member of my Sangha, I have consistently volunteered to facilitate meetings, offering topics, and meditations on a consistent basis. I have assisted with outreach to local recovery facilities to educate and connect patients with Recovery Dharma. When local recovery events are offered, I have participated in outreach with my Sangha to promote the principles and practices of Recovery Dharma. I attend monthly Sangha business meetings to contribute ideas to strengthen our Sangha.

I have also been attending an online, weekly Continuing Care group offered for other recovering professionals. During these groups, I have discussed Recovery Dharma and connected other group members with meetings in their areas.

I have a BA in Psychology and a MA in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling which has provided me opportunities to work in the field of therapy. As a counselor, I have worked to improve the lives of children and their families by assisting them in their homes to address mental health and substance abuse needs. My work helps families increase agency and self-efficacy by growing connections to their communities.

In addition, I work as a photographer, and have an established business providing portrait services to my community. In doing so, I have experience with marketing, websites, social media, Photoshop and business administration. At times, I have also volunteered my photography services for the promotion non-profit organizations.

What connections do you have with the Recovery Dharma community at large?

I have been an active member of the Birmingham, Alabama C3 Sangha for over one year and enjoy attending meetings in other areas when traveling.

How will you use your skills, knowledge, and experiences to contribute to increasing diversity, inclusivity, equity, and accessibility?

By utilizing my education and experiences as a community mental health counselor, I will help to develop empathetic and responsive policies that will increase membership in Sanghas globally, especially as it relates to growing IDEA goals.

How much time do you have to commit to the organization?

I have a flexible work schedule and can dedicate as much time as needed to fulfill my responsibilities to the Board and to the community. Additionally, I am open to spending extra time to learn new skills to assist with needed projects.

Is there a role that you hope to play as a member of the Board?

I am open to roles that are best-suited to my skills and experiences as well as those that are most needed to further Recovery Dharma’s goals.

Is there something you hope to achieve while serving with the Board?

In general, I would like to be a part of increasing the reach of Recovery Dharma especially people of color as well as other communities lacking options in recovery groups. Specifically, I would like to increase the online presence of Recovery Dharma and ease of accessibility to meetings globally.

Lauren Ero

What pronouns do you use?

She / Her

Where will you be located while serving on the Board?

Columbia, Maryland

What is it about the mission of Recovery Dharma Global that excites you?

It has been inspiring to watch the organization (RDG) move from its earliest foundation to the growth and potential I see now. I am drawn to the idea of being part of the development and growth of RDG. The core intentions that are most appealing to me that differentiate RDG are the independence from any one leader/teacher and the generosity, service, and leadership of all the volunteers and members who are dedicated to RDG. These individuals embody the values of empowerment and peer support that are the foundations of Recovery Dharma. I am honored to be considered for this opportunity!

What experience do you have related to the work of serving on the Board and related to the mission of the organization?

My entire career has been in nonprofit organizations. I have extensive experience in nonprofit management, both as a staff person and as a volunteer on several committees and boards. I was a board member of Living In Recovery, which provides recovery residences in my area, where I now work as a consultant. I have managed projects, volunteers, multimillion dollar budgets, online and in-person events, databases, and mass communications. I have significant experience in writing and managing grants. I have had my own business in medical editing for a number of years, and I am comfortable writing and editing for multimedia platforms.

Last year, I founded an in-person Recovery Dharma meeting in Howard County, Maryland. We have over 60 sangha members, and our weekly meeting usually has 15 to 20 attendees. We regularly have outdoor nature meditation led by one of our members, and we are considering starting other meetings in the area as the need is great.

What connections do you have with the Recovery Dharma community at large?

I was introduced to Refuge Recovery in 2017 in treatment, and I immediately connected with the program. I felt a sense of personal responsibility and empowerment that I did not find in other programs. When the Recovery Dharma program began, I felt a deep connection to the core values of inclusivity, peer leadership, integrity, and safety. During Covid, I was also involved in Women of Recovery Dharma (WORD), and I was a virtual attendee at the recent Summit.

How will you use your skills, knowledge, and experiences to contribute to increasing diversity, inclusivity, equity, and accessibility?

In my work with Living In Recovery, I am privileged to interact with individuals in early recovery. The recovery residences we own provide access to individuals from diverse backgrounds who may be homeless and/or low income. Our sangha received a grant from RDG to provide free copies of books to attendees who cannot afford to purchase one, often residents of recovery residences or coming directly out of treatment. As a practicing Buddhist, I live by the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. I am a member of several Buddhist sanghas in my area where I regularly practice. I feel that I can share perspectives from my personal Buddhist practice. I hope to encourage others by my example.

How much time do you have to commit to the organization?

I am at a point where I have flexibility in my schedule, as I work part time as a consultant to a small nonprofit. I am available as needed for board and committee meetings, and I can always fit a volunteer project into my schedule.

Is there a role that you hope to play as a member of the Board?

I am open to learning more about the needs of the board and finding where I can most be of service. I hope that I can continue the stellar work done by earlier board members while adding my personal experiences and perspectives to RDG.

Is there something you hope to achieve while serving with the Board?

The areas where I see the most need include the development of more community outreach. I would like to help local meetings/sanghas reach out to treatment centers and institutions to introduce people to Recovery Dharma, if that were something they would like to do.

Additionally, I can provide some expertise in nonprofit management and governance. I am very process oriented, and I can add value to the development of policies, procedures and guidelines.

Darling Valentine

What Pronouns do you use?

They / Them

Where will you be located while serving on the Board?

San Diego, California

What is it about the mission of Recovery Dharma Global that excites you?

The mission to serve the diverse global community excited me because RD has been instrumental in my healing journey. I have 15 years of experience working for nonprofits and have served on many boards. I believe I will be able to bring a joyous attitude while working together on a team to serve the global RD conmunity.

What experience do you have related to the work of serving on the Board and related to the mission of the organization?

When I was 19 I because president of a board of directors that serve the homeless youth in Seattle, WA. And then when I got sober at 28 I joined the Board of Directors for the Buddhist Recovery Network. I spent time building relationships with the many people on the original board of directors and people currently on the board. Im very familiar with what the commitment requires and I have the space to serve the community in a way I was not able to previously.

What connections do you have with the Recovery Dharma community at large?

I’ve been facilitating Recovery Dharma meetings since the book first came out. I’ve met many Recovery Dharma friends from around the world at summits and during my travels. I spent time very active on recovery social media helping with Buddhist Recovery and Recovery Dharma matters.

How will you use your skills, knowledge, and experiences to contribute to increasing diversity, inclusivity, equity, and accessibility?

My goal is to offer my queer perspective as a nonbinary individual. I currently serve on the IDEA committee for Recovery Dharma and we are working as a team to increase diversity, inclusivity, equity, and accessibility. I helped start the very first BIPOC RD meeting and will continue to use my skills to help uplift all the communities in RD that need to be represented.

How much time do you have to commit to the organization?

Right now, I have a lot of open space to commit to the board.

Is there a role that you hope to play as a member of the Board?

I would like to help create more tools and resources for the Recovery Dharma community. A lot of my experience and training has been about holistic recovery and I would like to share that information using tools that I can share with the community as a whole. Mostly I just want to be here to serve where needed and work hard to keep a positive environment while we work together as a Board.

Is there something you hope to achieve while serving with the Board?

Yes, I’d love to create an official workbook or handouts that help members map out their holistic recovery. I’d like to create this by merging Buddhist Wisdom and modern holistic recovery knowledge.

Cherri Hendricks Hostetler

What Pronouns do you use?

She / Her / They

Where will you be located while serving on the Board?

Athens, Ohio

What is it about the mission of Recovery Dharma Global that excites you? 

Recovery Dharma was my lifeline in the 1st year of my recovery.

Even though I did not belong to a RD Sangha I was using the Four Noble Truths, The Eightfold Path, and the Five Precepts as my guide to recovery. I would log into the RD site, read, and drop into various online meetings.

I finally found a home in the Sitting Under the Bodhi Tree online sangha. This group has been a integral to my dharma practice and recovery journey.

My intention in running is to serve and help ensure that Recovery Dharma continues to be a welcoming space for all people that suffer with greed, hatred, and delusion in the form of addiction.

What excites me about Recovery Dharma is that it explicitly states that its work is the “empowerment “of members to enable them to recover through their own wisdom and their own path. I believe that for recovery to be lifelong it must speak to a person’s individual needs and concerns. I feel this is what the Dharma has allowed me to do, and I hope to embody that through service.

What experience do you have related to the work of serving on the Board and related to the mission of the organization?

I am a past Board President and previous Board member of the Mount Zion Baptist Church Preservation Society where I worked to save a 100-year-old church built by and for the Black Appalachian community after Emancipation.

I am currently a Certified Peer Recovery Supporter in the State of Ohio and I also work as health care provider in a community hospital that continues to be heavily impacted by the opioid and methamphetamine crisis.

What connections do you have with the Recovery Dharma community at large?

I have been a ”lurking” member of Recovery Dharma for the past two years and recently an active member of the BIPOC sangha Sitting Under the Bodhi Tree.

How will you use your skills, knowledge, and experiences to contribute to increasing diversity, inclusivity, equity, and accessibility?

I am at ease in all spaces, I am able to find the commonality that we all share, and I am strong enough to intentionally hold space for those that cannot do it for themselves. I believe I can contribute to Recovery Dharma’s mission of diversity inclusion, equity and accessibility because I have moved through a countless number of communities that are unlike myself and have a felt sense of the difficulties that can be encountered when you do.

How much time do you have to commit to the organization?

I have allotted 15- 20 hours of time per month to Board work, however my experience is that while serving you pretty much live the work during your term of office.

Is there a role that you hope to play as a member of the Board?

Playing a role is what got me here.

However, I would like to think of myself as a utility player open to helping move projects to completion. Outside of that, I am a really good public speaker.

Is there something you hope to achieve while serving with the Board?

Sometimes volunteering or serving on any level can feel scary or intimidating. While serving I would like to understand the needs of the Global community. I want to learn ways that I can facilitate and support members to serve at all levels and in every capacity.

Josh Rychert

What Pronouns do you use?

He / Him

Where will you be located while serving on the Board?

Boise, Idaho

What is it about the mission of Recovery Dharma Global that excites you?

I’m excited by being able to participate in the larger organization because I’ve often felt alone in my efforts to build Recovery Dharma on a local basis. I feel that participating on the Recovery Dharma Global board will energize me so that I can participate more dynamically in my local group. And of course, I just want Recovery Dharma to keep evolving in the best way to bring to most lasting happiness to everyone possible.

What experience do you have related to the work of serving on the Board and related to the mission of the organization?

I have served as a board member and board president of a non-profit organization. This organization is the Boise Institute for Buddhist Studies (BIBS). BIBS is made up of several Buddhist groups that share a meditation center.

What connections do you have with the Recovery Dharma community at large?

I have been a member of Boise’s Recovery Dharma sangha since Recovery Dharma began. Before that, I was a member of Refuge Recovery since 2014. I have continuously attended and supported weekly meetings. We have four weekly meetings in Boise.

How will you use your skills, knowledge, and experiences to contribute to increasing diversity, inclusivity, equity, and accessibility?

I will collaborate on translating Recovery Dharma materials into a variety of languages. I will build alliances with the Latin community. I will serve to bring Recovery Dharma to people who struggle with chronic mental illness.

How much time do you have to commit to the organization?

10 hours per month.

Is there a role that you hope to play as a member of the Board?

I’d like to collaborate with others on strengthening the community involved with pornography addiction recovery. I have worked as a psychiatric technician on an inpatient behavioral health unit for eight years. I want to contribute to the mental health affinity group.

Is there something you hope to achieve while serving with the Board?

I’d like to collaborate on the creation of an archive of Recovery Dharma personal stories. Video/Audio/Text. I’d like to work with others to establish a research branch that partners with an academic institution to ethically gather data that provides evidence of Recovery Dharma’s efficacy.

Jeannette Castañeda

What Pronouns do you use?

 She / Ella

Where will you be located while serving on the Board?

I live in Eugene, Oregon. 

What is it about the mission of Recovery Dharma Global that excites you?

The three things that have helped MY own recovery are: self-compassion, mindfulness, and community. I’ve been trying to recover from various eating disorders for the past three decades. The three things above were missing from every program I tried. I believe that a Buddhist approach IS the key to free ourselves from all sorts of suffering. RDG brings this message to a population that really needs it – folks trying hard to begin recovery and folks trying hard to stay in recovery. I want to be a part of making RDG a strong, long-lived organization.

What experience do you have related to the work of serving on the Board and related to the mission of the organization?

I haven’t volunteered in any capacity in over a decade. In my 20’s I was involved with various non-profit boards…but I cannot remember those organizations or the positions.. However, I have a variety of professional skills that sure are transferable! Here is my LinkedIn profile in lieu of a resume. https://www.linkedin.com/in/imjeannettec

What connections do you have with the Recovery Dharma community at large?

I have been the “Intersangha Coordinator” for the Rainbow Recovery Intersangha since mid-2022.

How will you use your skills, knowledge, and experiences to contribute to increasing diversity, inclusivity, equity, and accessibility?

I grew up in Honduras, in a middle class home. I was the first generation in my family to go to college, mostly because my parents valued education so dearly that they sacrificed their own comfort to pay for expensive private school and college tuition for all three of their children.

As an immigrant in the US, I am keenly aware of the ways in which my upbringing grant me privilege.

For example, a bilingual education means my speech makes me sound US-born. I am keenly aware of how my skin color and facial features grant me privilege (a Palestinian mother and a mestizo father mixed to create a white-looking me).

As a queer cis woman whose family disowned her for being queer, I am keenly aware of the pain that comes from “feeling apart.”

As a 52 year old fat woman who is actively using the Dhamma to recover from various eating disorders, I feel called to continue deepening my understanding of how the Buddha’s teachings can bring freedom not only to myself, but to others.

How much time do you have to commit to the organization?

I have 10-12 hours per month.

Is there a role that you hope to play as a member of the Board?

I don’t have a preference right now.

Is there something you hope to achieve while serving with the Board?

Recovering from eating disorders is not like recovering from substance abuse. Abstinence from alcohol or a narcotic is a primary goal in recovery for those who have this disorder.

Abstinence from food is a part of the **definition** of various disordered eating behaviors.

Restricting a particular food (sugar, carbs, etc.) leads to binge eating, which is one of the components of the restrict-binge cycle for those folks suffering with Binge Eating Disorder. Diet culture and general misinformation on the internet plays a significant role in the creation of eating disorders.

It took me almost 8 months after joining RD to understand that recovering from eating disorders IS indeed different due to my lack of education AND because the language in the ED book supported a bunch of misconceptions I brought with me into the recovery process. Since then I’ve been studying to become an eating disorders peer counselor in order to support folks like myself.

I want to make sure folks who come to RD seeking freedom from eating disorders and disordered eating find the help they need to truly recover.

Steve Whitten

What Pronouns do you use?

He / Him / His

Where will you be located while serving on the Board?

Tempe, Arizona, United States of America. These are the ancestral lands of the Akimel O’odham (Upper Pima) and Hohokam peoples.

What is it about the mission of Recovery Dharma Global that excites you?

“Recovery means empowerment.” My own lack of self-worth was a major contributor to the shame and spiraling of my addiction. One of the biggest allies of addiction is low self-worth. People often enter meetings at their lowest point in life. Through taking meetings to treatment centers, I have noticed there is often a visible moment where an individual realizes there is hope and they have value. I have witnessed that light turn on in hundreds of people in early recovery at meetings, and there is nothing more beautiful or inspiring.

What experience do you have related to the work of serving on the Board and related to the mission of the organization?

Since August of 2019, I have worked to get Recovery Dharma into treatment centers so that we can reach more people. This includes getting open Recovery Dharma meetings into two campuses of the largest treatment centers in the Southwest. While I do not take credit for any of the work done by others, I do my best to encourage others to be of service and to do what they can. All this work has led to the overall growth of Recovery Dharma in the Phoenix metro area, led to a network of people practicing Recovery Dharma, and led to lifelong friendships. I do my best to help other sangha members to start meetings, encourage retention, and to remind people of the importance of their recovery and service.

In addition to my local service, I have also extended my service to the greater organization. I volunteer on our community led Facebook group, Recovery Dharma Arizona, and to the large community Recovery Dharma Facebook group, to help provide a safe and widely utilized online global community. I have recently joined the RDG Communications Committee for similar reasons. I served with the currently idle RD Treatment and Corrections Circle to help spread the word of Recovery Dharma. My involvement there was of great benefit to the effectiveness of my work here in the Phoenix, Arizona area. My goals of local work have now shifted to global work and infrastructure so that others may do the same.

Professionally, I have served with the Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee for my local union and on the Executive Board of the local union where my responsibilities included a fiduciary duty while upholding the integrity of the institutions. My service there allowed me to learn that change does not happen overnight and it takes small steps, over time, for growth.

What connections do you have with the Recovery Dharma community at large?

Through my participation in the Treatment and Corrections Circle, I made connections with people all over the United States and even the world. My thirst for finding materials and how to present Recovery Dharma has led me to connections with people in various online and regional sanghas.

The pandemic helped solidify many of these relationships. Attending virtual Recovery Dharma meetings and participating in other recovery groups has led to sharing resources, a general understanding of regional differences, and connections that span the globe.

How will you use your skills, knowledge, and experiences to contribute to increasing diversity, inclusivity, equity, and accessibility?

Recovery Dharma Global and the sangha members have done a great job of inclusion, which is part of the beauty of the practice. However, we must continue to be mindful of how much privilege plays a part in the ability to participate in Recovery Dharma. An internet connection is almost imperative. Many turn to Recovery Dharma after having been less than successful in finding a connection with other recovery programs. A person has to have the time and resources to seek out Recovery Dharma meetings and the ablity to do the work with virtual connections. We can overcome this by making Recovery Dharma more available and less of a last resort. This begins with putting final touches on Recovery Dharma Global’s infrastructure, making materials more accessible, and encouraging service. To be truly accessible and inclusive, we must be available first. To me that means facilitating growth while staying true to our value of inclusivity.

Is there a role that you hope to play as a member of the Board?

I want to be a facilitator who helps cross things off checklists. I have made connections with several people who have done great work in their sanghas. My goal will be to get them involved globally, both to have their work available to others and so that they may feel closer to the greater collective. There are tons of resources out there that individual sanghas have produced, and I hope to help open the pipeline to allow some of that to flow to interconnect to the other sanghas. While working toward completion of large projects like the second edition of the book or events, I hope to complete quick and easy projects that will facilitate growth. These projects can include: print-to-order swag for fundraising, or endorsing supplemental materials for daily practice to promote on the website. This includes completing projects in which substantial work that has been done like the dyslexia friendly or foreign language prints of the book. I plan to accomplish this by connecting with relevant people who are in a position to help and by listening to the needs of individual regional sanghas.

Is there something you hope to achieve while serving with the Board?

I would like to help with facilitating distribution of Recovery Dharma related supplemental materials that already exist like the Wise Friends Workbook that is already in progress. This can also include printable items for distribution in meetings such as reference sheets, meditation logs, daily inquiries, and other materials individual sanghas have done. I would also like to see more books going to treatment centers, more focus on reaching out, and planting the seeds in those in early recovery. If I am elected and we can plant a seed of service, consolidate some of the great work local sanghas have done and distribute it, and get more books and meetings to treatment centers, my term will have been a success.

Jed A. Reay

What Pronouns do you use?

He / Him

Where will you be located while serving on the Board?

Eugene, OR, USA

What is it about the mission of Recovery Dharma Global that excites you?

The awakening to the knowledge that my addiction isn’t just a singularity, but rather a complete and complexed mix of many behaviors and beliefs, that, RD allowed me to recognize, within in a very short time, that 22 years in other 12 program(s) never could. Now I have a path, that is both wise and open to all possibilities that speak to how I show up in the world and with my Sangha of brothers and sisters. Without this community, I don’t believe I would have come this far without Recovery Dharma.

What experience do you have related to the work of serving on the Board and related to the mission of the organization?

I have served the recovery community here in Oregon/California in several different capacities of the last 40 years. From the development of Pendleton, OR.’s first Narcotics Anonymous program, several Sec/Tres, of both AA and NA in Pendleton, Portland, Eugene, and San Rafael.

I was the Assistant Manager of a Half-House in Pendleton for 2 1/2 years prior to going back to school in Eugene, OR. While, managing the halfway house I had the privilege of being part of a small group (4-6), that took the message of recovery into the Washington State Penitentiary, in Walla Walla, WA. back in the early 80’s. Bottom line here for me is being challenged, to continue serving in any capacity for the recovery community, Locally, Nationally, and Internationally.

What connections do you have with the Recovery Dharma community at large?

I chair/volunteer for 2 hybrid meetings In Eugene each week and have since May 2020. I am just in the early stages of outreach development for recovery centers here in Eugene, as well.

Likewise, I attend and support all other meeting, webinars, and events that take place here in Oregon as a whole. Also, I have attended most, if not all, meetings of the RDG offers.

How will you use your skills, knowledge, and experiences to contribute to increasing diversity, inclusivity, equity, and accessibility?

A little short “True” story. In 1982-83, I attended a community collage in Pendleton, OR. “Blue Mountain CC” During my time there (3-4 years sober at that time) I had the joys of going to school with a wide range of students……. young and old alike, jock, heads, (or Stoners), old, young, rodeo students and so forth. One day, I was exiting the food line in the Student Union, and headed to a table of nursing students who I ate with often. I sat down, and Doug (friend) said to me, you are amazing! I looked at him with a surprised look on my face and said, “what are you talking about.” He proceeded to tell me that as I walk across the large SU, that I said hello and addressed each table as I passed by, what was unusual was that each of those tables were members of very distinct groups of people. Now those distinct groups didn’t intermingle normally or at all. Doug said, I have never seen someone walk into or out of a room and address such diversity in his life. I have never forgotten that. That is how I live my life today, that same way. NO ONE IS ABOVE OR BELOW, we are all walking on this rock together. There is no room in my life for NOT WALKING IT TOGETHER. I know that can be challenging at times, but one thing Recovery Dharma has taught me, is compassion that I never knew I had.

I believe I do bring a unique and diverse perspective to RD. Since 1979 I have worked in very diverse areas, such as State and County social services, private practice, and both non-profit and for-profit corporations. This diversity allows me to have a broad perspective and understanding of where our service is now, and where it could go in the future.

How much time do you have to commit to the organization?

At this point, I have, a lot of time. This relative, I am in the process of coming out of Retirement to go back to work, but it really about time management. I really don’t know how to answer that specifically. This week I have 10–15 hrs to give you. Next week I may have more, then the week after that less. I will give and commit as much as I can.

Is there a role that you hope to play as a member of the Board?

Honestly, there isn’t anything I can’t do to serve, except for the Legal side of Governance. I am, currently, applying for GRC positions in the private Cybersecurity sector, but do not have a law degree. So anything from Governance to marketing, and everything in between. I hope that makes your job a bit easier. I can comfortably fit into any role necessary.

Is there something you hope to achieve while serving with the Board?

The continued growth that Recovery Dharma is currently experiencing. If there is anything more important is to raise awareness for less suffering, I don’t know what that is. Just take a moment and scroll down through, twitter, you don’t have to ask any further. It’s incredible how much trauma is being inflicted on the human experience right now. Flipping incredible. And if you have not been there in a while or before, I can’t begin to tell you how much pain we are in. ALL OF US!

Shannon Findlay

What Pronouns do you use?

She / Her

Where will you be located while serving on the Board?

Everett, WA, USA

What is it about the mission of Recovery Dharma Global that excites you?

I cherish Buddhist practices and principles and think they are such a great fit for the recovery path. I love that RD does not focus on one specific addiction but is available for people with addictions of all kinds. I really appreciate that RD is peer-led and has no leaders.

What experience do you have related to the work of serving on the Board and related to the mission of the organization?

I have experience working with diverse populations in my roll as a Medical Assistant for 28 years. I was a small business owner for 2 years. I am currently employed at the Recovery Café where I work with people in early recovery, many of whom are experiencing homelessness. I am also a college student working towards becoming a mental health counselor.

What connections do you have with the Recovery Dharma community at large?

I have been participating in online meetings regularly for the past two years and have built relationships with members in the Seattle area and WORD Online Sangha. I started an in-person meeting in Everett, WA last August. A member of the Everett group and I are currently looking for a place to start another in-person meeting in Lynnwood, WA. I was recently asked to be a moderator for the RD Facebook page which I enjoy doing.

How much time do you have to commit to the organization?

I am able to commit to an average of four hours per week.

How will you use your skills, knowledge, and experiences to contribute to increasing diversity, inclusivity, equity, and accessibility?

I am passionate about IDEA and I am so glad this is important to the Recovery Dharma community. I have always enjoyed working in diverse organizations and I like spending time with people from different races, ethnicities, cultures, sexualities, and religions. I recognize that, as a white woman, I have grown up with privilege and that it is important to be aware of and investigate my own implicit biases. I continue to learn about this subject in college classes and by reading books. I am sharing what I am learning with my friends, family, and people in my workplace. I am still developing the skill of having conversations that can sometimes be difficult, but I am unafraid to do so.

Is there a role that you hope to play as a member of the Board?

I  am happy to be of service in any way that I can but I am most interested in member and sangha outreach and support. I am passionate about encouraging people to start in-person meetings in their areas. I am also interested communications and literature. I recently created a trifold pamphlet that I added to the AA/NA pamphlet rack at Recovery Café in Everett. I have been sharing digital copies with other RD members who are facilitating or wanting to start in-person meetings in their areas.

Is there something you hope to achieve while serving with the Board?

I would love to help RD reach more people. I had never heard of Recovery Dharma until I found the book on Amazon and then read in the reviews that there were meetings. It was a real eureka moment for me because I desperately wanted to get sober and was dreading going back to AA. I want to help get the word out to all people suffering from addiction.

Elise Gallagher

What pronouns do you use?

 She/her

Where will you be located while serving on the Board?

 Indianapolis, Indiana

What is it about the mission of Recovery Dharma Global that excites you?

I am excited to be involved in a group that is there to support and serve its members. It is centered around the members needs- exactly as they are. People do not need to fit into any specific category to get the support- it is given to them exactly as they are. That is what brought me to Recovery Dharma meetings in the first place. I could be the whole Elise- not just one compartment. It has helped me be able to live my life without compartmentalizing and I am excited to do what I can to help support the mission and bring that to others.

What experience do you have related to the work of serving on the Board and related to the mission of the organization?

I am an attorney and yoga teacher as well as a mother, partner, and friend. I think all of these roles have helped me to be able to listen (with physical senses but also intuitively), to use discernment, to problem solve and also be able to see different sides of a discussion. I believe that these things are important when supporting a large and diverse community.

What connections do you have with the Recovery Dharma community at large?

I had started an in person meeting locally for a while, however most of the connections to the community have been through online meetings. One of the reasons that I am interested in serving for the Board is so that I can become more connected to the community.

How will you use your skills, knowledge, and experiences to contribute to increasing diversity, inclusivity, equity, and accessibility?

My answer to this is similar to what experience I have related to serving on the Board because I believe this is part of the mission. Most of all I will listen. I will ask questions and do my best to see things from different points of view and make sure that the work being done that I am part of keeps this focus at the forefront.

How much time do you have to commit to the organization?

I have 4 hours each week (16 hours per month) that I can comfortably commit.

Is there a role that you hope to play as a member of the Board?

I trust that if I am given the opportunity to serve in this way that it will be for a reason and that the role where I can be of most benefit will be revealed.

Is there something you hope to achieve while serving with the Board?

I hope to be able to give back and be of service to a community and program that has given to me and my recovery.