The 2025 RAI Building Recovery Communities Summit brought together over 170 leaders and advocates from 12 sectors across North Carolina for two days of connection, learning, and action in Raleigh. The event featured inspiring keynote speakers Mark Lefebvre and David Whitesock, dynamic panels, and powerful lived-experience case studies — all aimed at building stronger recovery communities. Together, we celebrated progress, shared innovative solutions, and strengthened our collective commitment to creating recovery-oriented communities across the state.
What some of our attendees had to say:
- “This has been awesome and filled with a wealth of information.”
- “Thank you for continuing to support the varied needs of communities.”
- “Wonderful conference,” “Excellent workshop,” “Awesome event,” “Variety of vendors was incredible.”
Key Highlights
- More than 170 attendees from across North Carolina came together, representing 12 sectors that intersect with the field of substance use and recovery.
- A powerful case study panel and Q&A sparked meaningful dialogue and shared insights from local and regional leaders.
- Keynote sessions focused on Building Recovery-Ready Communities and Recovery Capital, offering strategies to strengthen systems of support across the state.
- Interactive activities led by Tara Kunkel and Kris Bryant—“How to Do Big Things by Harnessing Your Superpower, Defeating Your Kryptonite, and Suiting Up for Opportunities”—inspired participants to think boldly and act collaboratively.
- RAI is moving forward with partners across nine Eastern Carolina counties, implementing solutions informed by the ECC Needs & Gaps Assessment presented by Steven Fuller.
- The Summit received an overall event rating of 4.9 out of 5, reflecting the energy, relevance, and impact of the experience.
Resources
Explore the Highlights and Insights for links to the report and pictures!→