Recovery Coach Academy
MRC has been preparing individuals to provide one-to-one peer recovery support since 2011. Over 600 people have completed the Recovery Coach Academy to date and are using their peer-to-peer support skills to strengthen their communities.
The Recovery Coach Academy is a 46-hour program that introduces participants to the key concepts, fundamental skills and core functions of being effective in their role as a Recovery Coach or Peer Recovery Specialist.
“This was the highest of quality trainings. So professional. An absolutely AMAZING and LIFE-CHANGING experience.”
– 2018 Recovery Coach Academy graduate
What is a Recovery Coach?
Recovery Coaches . . .
- remove barriers to recovery
- connect peers to recovery resources that target their strengths and interests
- provide emotional support
- focus on the present and future
- explore “could” instead of “should”
What is a Peer Recovery Specialist?
Recent Blogs

Walking for Recovery: Beckie Lillehei and Team Kick It for Kellie
The Walk for Recovery is an essential event for community members and families to gather where their stories are understood and accepted. Team Kick it for Kellie 7.0 has been participating in the Walk for Recovery since 2016 and is ready to walk again this year! To this team, the walk is a day to hug as many people as possible and support other families who have lost children to substance use disorders. Beckie Lillehei, team Kick it for Kellie 7.0’s captain, shared her mission and story with us as she is getting ready to prepare her walk team for 2022.

Walking for Recovery: Krista Lunzer and Team Emily
“We were surrounded by people who supported us with so much love.” The Walk for Recovery is an essential community event to model hope and

Volunteer Spotlight: Frankie Churchill
Minnesota Recovery Connection is a Recovery Community Organization – a grassroots nonprofit whose staff, volunteers, and Board of Directors are all people in personal or