The Recovery Oriented Campus Center (ROCC) at the University of Southern Maine is a Collegiate Recovery Program focused on establishing peer support to build a community for students in recovery from substance use and other mental health conditions. We are an empowerment-based community that fosters the possibility of personal growth by embracing all pathways to recovery and building connections.

The ROCC is a place where students enter to reconnect with themselves, each other, and their community while also exploring their academic potential and the opportunities that are available to them on their path to recovery.

Inclusivity and Respect

The ROCC is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that respects and celebrates the diverse paths of recovery. We believe in the inherent worth of every individual and strive to create a community where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.

Peer-Led Empowerment

At the heart of our values is a commitment to student success. We empower individuals in recovery by providing personalized support, academic resources, and a nurturing community. Our goal is to equip students with the tools and confidence they need to excel in both their recovery and academic pursuits.

What is the ROCC?

Learn more about how the ROCC got started.

What is a Collegiate Recovery Program/Center?

Colleges and universities across the country have established collegiate recovery programs (CRP) or collegiate recovery centers (CRC), as a comprehensive form of support services to meet the needs of college students in recovery. CRPs are designed to provide an educational opportunity alongside recovery support to ensure that students do not have to sacrifice one for the other. While services and offerings may vary by location and institution, these programs and communities share the goal of promoting student success in both academic pursuits and personal recovery through the integration of recovery into the campus culture.

To learn more about Collegiate Recovery Programs/Centers visit The Association of Recovery in Higher Education.

How do we define Recovery?

At the ROCC, we use the definition of recovery put forth by SAMHSA: “Recovery is a process of change through which people improve their health and wellness, live self-directed lives, and strive to reach their full potential.” This includes recovery from substance use and other mental health conditions. While we know that there are many different paths to recovery, regarding supporting recovery, there are four dimensions to consider:

  • Health: Overcoming or managing one’s disease(s) or symptoms and making informed, healthy choices that support physical and emotional well-being.
  • Home: Having a stable and safe place to live.
  • Purpose: Conducting meaningful daily activities and having the independence, income, and resources to participate in society.
  • Community: Having relationships and social networks that provide support, friendship, love, and hope.

At the ROCC, we aim to promote the continual improvement of a campus environment which makes it possible for members of our community to be able to improve their health, have a stable and safe living environment, find meaning, and establish community.