Giving Day makes an impact on recovery programs

Giving Day at the University of Calgary plays an essential role in supporting programs across campus, including those focused on recovery and mental health. One key initiative benefiting from the annual fund-raising initiative is the UCalgary Recovery Community (UCRC), which offers peer-led support for students in addiction recovery.

For individuals like Mike Sorochan, UCRC is not just a network, but an important resource for staying sober and succeeding.

“This is something that truly takes people from despair to recovery." - Mike Sorochan, UCalgary student and UCRC peer recovery navigator.

Sorochan’s longtime struggle with alcohol prompted him to take responsibility for his recovery, which ultimately led to unexpected opportunities, including the chance to return to university and study psychology.

“Trauma leads a lot of people there, and it's not your fault, but it is your responsibility,” he says. “I had to make the decision that I was going to try as hard as I could. And that effort opened up many opportunities that I wasn’t expecting.”

Finding recovery through peer support

Along his recovery journey, Sorochan had discovered SMART Recovery, a program focused on self-empowerment and practical tools for building a healthier future. When he found that meetings were also offered through UCRC, connecting students with others who have lived through addiction, he became embedded in the community.

“I always say learning takes place in three phases: you learn information, you understand it and you change your behaviour,” says Sorochan. “And it's that last piece that a lot of people have a hard time reaching.” 

With peer support as a crucial part of his recovery, Sorochan decided to pay it forward. Drawing from his experiences, he began helping others by joining UCRC as a part-time peer recovery navigator.

“The statistics are against you, you feel like you're a ship that's lost at sea and in the middle of a hurricane, but overcoming addiction does make you a lot stronger.”

Advancing recovery through Giving Day

The continued growth of UCRC relies on community engagement. Donations for campaigns such as Giving Day provide students in recovery — like Sorochan — with the resources and programs they need to thrive, says Program Manager, Chelsie Graham, BSW’22.

“Through the generosity of donations, we can ensure that there continues to be alternative options for fun and exciting events, while supporting individuals with lived experience to deliver our peer-led, peer-driven services,” says Graham.

These contributions help sustain UCRC’s dedicated spaces, expand programming and allow the continuation of a wide array of essential services such as mentorship, mutual aid and sober social events. They provide resources vital for students’ recovery and academic success.

Future plans

As for Sorochan, his recovery journey has inspired him to find new ways to help others and has shaped his career aspirations.

“I have a binder full of plans,” he says. “I want to graduate with honours. I want to go into clinical psychology and pursue a graduate program. I don’t want to do this professionally, but I’ll do it for the rest of my life for free.”

Beyond UCalgary, he is also involved with SMART programming at Central United Church, located at 131 7^th Ave. S.W. Here, he is launching Sober Friends, a weekly gathering that offers a sober space for social connection without a formal meeting structure. The first event is a karaoke night which will take place on Friday, April 4 from 7 to 9 PM.

“The toughest part about getting sober is that you outgrow your old friend group, and you haven't yet formed a new one. There’s a period of real loneliness and boredom,” says Sorochan.