Speakers: Laura Tendler and Adam Marten
Session Description:
This powerful session shares two lived experiences that demonstrate how Recovery-Oriented Systems of Care (ROSC) and the principles of the Alberta Recovery Model are reaching far beyond provincial borders and creating real impact across Canada. Laura Tendler from Saskatchewan brings a systems-level and community perspective, highlighting how recovery-oriented approaches are taking shape outside of Alberta. Alongside her story is Adam, a young person whose journey through a recovery-oriented system shows what is possible when connection, support, and belief in recovery are present early in life.
Through their stories, this session explores how building recovery capital—relationships, purpose, cultural connection, and access to care—can transform outcomes. Adam’s experience as a youth navigating recovery demonstrates the importance of environments that foster hope, identity, and belonging, while Laura’s work reflects the growing momentum of recovery-oriented care across provinces. Together, they illustrate that when systems are aligned around recovery, people don’t just stabilize—they thrive.
Grounded in Indigenous lived experience, this session also speaks to the importance of culturally safe and relevant care. It highlights how recovery is strengthened when individuals are connected to culture, community, and identity. Laura and Adam’s stories show that recovery-oriented systems are not only effective, but can be deeply respectful and responsive to Indigenous ways of knowing, offering a path forward that is both evidence-informed and culturally grounded.