In response to a series of tragic losses due to mental health struggles and substance use, OCJ emerged as a beacon of hope. Prompted by the realization that these struggles were widespread, OCJ was founded by individuals who had personally experienced addiction and mental health challenges. Their mission: to foster open conversations and support networks, relieving the burden on Alberta's overwhelmed systems. OCJ's platform allows personal stories to resonate, providing hope and resilience in the face of adversity. Through shared experiences and collective strength, OCJ demonstrates the power of narrative and community in creating a brighter future for mental health support.
OCJ is a non-profit organization funded solely through grants and donations. If you need help, we're here for you. If you want to help, your donations go directly towards supporting someone in their recovery journey. Recovery Coaching with OCJ will help you use your own lived experience to help save the lives of other people who need you.
OCJ-RC's or OCJ Recovery Coaches are trained individuals using evidence-based knowledge and skills to empower people with substance use or addiction issues.
Recovery Coaching builds trusting, working relationships with people and create safe spaces for them to identify immediate obstacles that are inhibiting forward momentum in their recovery pathway. RCs then work from a Recovery Capital model to help the individuals uncover existing strengths, then foster the co-creation of positive visions, personal recovery goals and recovery plans for their future.
Recovery Coaching bridges gaps in the system, connecting people to the types of treatment and support they need, linking them with resources and recovery support networks in their communities.
It is very important to understand the role of the coach and how it differs from other roles. A Recovery Coach may have previous training in some of these areas, but when in the role of a recovery coach, they are NOT a:
The above listed roles may be important pieces to someone’s recovery journey, but a recovery coach is complementary to these other supports.
OCJ-RCs understand how important it is that friends and family know what the person in recovery is going through so that they can help in the process. Addiction impacts the entire family and building recovery capital within the family assists in building a recovery community.
OCJ-RCs also understand that recovery is not a short-term process. It takes time. OCJ-RCs focus on helping to build the participant’s Recovery Capital in order to improve their quality of life in recovery.
Connection is the easy part. If you are ready to make a change in your relationship with substances and want to start working towards your recovery, we are here to help. The key is that you must be willing and able to connect. Nobody can do the recovery work for you, that falls on your shoulders. The difference is that you do not have to do it alone once you are connected to an OCJ-RC.
Connection can be made however you are most comfortable, but it has to start with you contacting us.
The OCJ golf tournament has proven to beone of the most sought after fundraisers of the season. Each year thetournament has been full before being open to the public. Sponsorships havetaken up every golf cart seat the day can handle so if you are interested intaking part, please do not wait.
SE Alberta’s only Hot Air Balloon Festival brings hot air balloon pilots from across North America to fly their majestic balloons for the viewing pleasure of those in Medicine Hat and surrounding areas. The festival helps raise awareness around working collectively to enhance mental wellness while rising to great heights together.