A recovery community organization (RCO) is an independent, not-for-profit organization led and governed by representatives of local communities of recovery. The sole mission of an RCO is to mobilize resources within and outside of the recovery community to increase the prevalence and quality of long-term recovery from alcohol and other drug problems.

Recovery community organizations coordinate key services for the recovery community.

RCO's organize recovery-focused policy advocacy initiatives, carry out recovery-focused community education and outreach programs, and often provide peer-based recovery support services. These may include peer support, housing, transportation, employment services, telephone recovery support, support groups, life skills training and sober social activities.

RCO's aim to serve the recovery community by:

• Building strong grassroots organizations that develop leaders and provide a forum for community service
• Advocating for meaningful representation and voice for people in long-term recovery and their families
• Assessing needs related to local recovery support services
• Educating the public, policymakers and service providers about recovery
• Developing human and fiscal resources by expanding philanthropic and public support and cultivating volunteerism
• Advocating for policy changes to promote recovery and remove barriers
• Celebrating recovery from addiction through public events and outreach
• Supporting research that identifies effective approaches to recovery