WARWICK – Monica Smith has been named executive director of Rhode Island Communities for Addiction Recovery Efforts, the organization said Monday.
Smith, a recovery advocate with experience working with alcohol and drug-free recovery housing, families experiencing homelessness and domestic violence survivors, is relocating from Portland, Ore., to take the position, according to a news release from RICARES.
“I’m very excited to take on this new challenge in Rhode Island, to be a strong voice for those in need of recovery supports, particularly in this time of increased urgency,” Smith said in a statement.
RICARES board chair Michelle McKenzie, director of the Preventing Overdose and Naloxone Intervention program at The Miriam Hospital, said Smith’s experience in community organizing was impressive.
Smith, a graduate of Marylhurst University in Oregon with a degree in organizational leadership and development, is working on a master’s degree in public administration. Open about her own recovery, she talks about how it drives her work.
“Like so many people, living a life of recovery has changed my life. I know what it takes a person to turn their life around. I know the struggle of overcoming trauma and the possibility of moving to a life of wellness, of wholeness. I want to make sure that others have that same opportunity,” Smith said.
