October, 2023 - Connected with Brian Richardson, Recovery Cafe Port Townsend's manager. Went to the Recovery Cafe for lunch and (along with a friend) got a "feel" for the heart-warming character of the Cafe.

November, 2023 - Reached out to Brian - who connected me with staff from Recovery Cafe Network.  Had a very meaningful conversation - found that values and goals - the mission - of a Recovery Cafe - were ones that resonate with a wide variety of folks - people who've gone through all sorts of traumas (big T and small t), folks who've lived with emotional distress or substance misuse... folks who've been marginalized in countless ways. Received very substantial material on what a Recovery Cafe "is", and some basic steps in getting a group of like-minded folks together.  Started a Facebook page - Recovery Cafe/s 4 Clallam County

December 13, 2023 - People here in Clallam County - people who are both peers and community members - have shared their support for getting a Recovery Cafe started here.  Several community members have already met with Tristan Seikel, Directory of Advocacy & Programming (Washington Recovery Alliance) and we have gotten their support and encouragement.  A few years ago, Washington Recovery Alliance started "coalitions" (groups based on behavioral health regions within Washington state).  While things started out strong - Covid intervened - so these coalitions went inactive through much of 2020-2022. Salish Recovery Coalition (Kitsap, Jefferson and Clallam Counties) is back up and running.  AND - there are Clallam County people who are getting involved.  (STAY TUNED!)