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The Retreat: Minnesota Recovery Programs
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Tools for Recovery

Tools for Recovery

by Major John Donovan, contributing blog writer | Jun 10, 2026 | 12 Step Program, 12 Steps of AA, AA Big Book, Alcohol Addiction, Substance Abuse

In the recording business, records were measured by RPMs. This stood for Revolutions Per Minute. This abbreviation is also a helpful mnemonic device to remember four important tools in one’s recovery tool kit.   RPMS: Readings, Prayers, Meetings and Sponsorship...
Sponsorship in Recovery: A Lifeline of Support and Accountability

Sponsorship in Recovery: A Lifeline of Support and Accountability

by Major John Donovan, contributing blog writer | Mar 22, 2026 | 12 Step Program, AA Meetings, Sponsorship, Support Group

Introduction Recovery from addiction is a journey that often feels daunting and isolating. One of the most powerful antidotes to this isolation is sponsorship—a unique support system that fosters connection, and accountability. Sponsorship is not just a tool in...
An Army of One vs A Program of We

An Army of One vs A Program of We

by Major John Donovan, contributing blog writer | Mar 22, 2026 | 12 Step Program, AA Meetings, Alcohol & Health, Alcohol Addiction, Alcoholics Anonymous, Recovery

An Army of One In the 90’s the United States Army had a recruiting campaign entitled “An Army of One.” It was supposed to appeal to the individualism of Gen Y.  The campaign failed miserably and was soon discarded.  Despite the campaign’s short lifespan, its...
Sponsorship in Alcoholics Anonymous: Building Lasting Recovery Connections

Sponsorship in Alcoholics Anonymous: Building Lasting Recovery Connections

by Major John Donovan, contributing blog writer | Mar 13, 2026 | 12 Step Program, AA Meetings, Sponsorship

Introduction: Why Sponsorship Matters in A.A. Recovery from alcoholism isn’t a solo journey, it’s a path best traveled with guidance, support, and the wisdom of people who have walked it before. In Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.), sponsorship stands out as one of the most...
Challenges and Solutions in Long-Term Recovery

Challenges and Solutions in Long-Term Recovery

by Major John Donovan, contributing blog writer | Mar 2, 2026 | Alcoholics Anonymous, Recovery

Cautionary Tales from Four Decades of Recovery The following accounts are drawn from four plus decades of experience in recovery. To maintain the privacy of those involved, names and locations have been altered. These narratives serve as cautionary examples that...
« Older Entries
  • black turntable on brown wooden table
    Tools for Recovery
    by Major John Donovan, contributing blog writer
  • The Great Fact and the New Year
    by John MacDougall
  • Black and white photo of a support group session indoors with diverse participants.
    I’d rather be a cause of the future than a result of the past
    by John MacDougall
  • Unrecognizable ethnic male client with hands clasped sitting on sofa near blurred female therapist during psychotherapy appointment in cozy office
    Sponsorship in Recovery: A Lifeline of Support and Accountability
    by Major John Donovan, contributing blog writer
  • A multicultural group of people participating in a supportive therapy session indoors, fostering diversity and discussion.
    An Army of One vs A Program of We
    by Major John Donovan, contributing blog writer
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Our Misson

Our mission is to improve the quality of life for individuals, families and communities affected by alcohol and drug dependency by providing affordable, effective educational services grounded in the Twelve Step principles of Alcoholics Anonymous.

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*The Retreat is a supportive, educational recovery program and is not a substitute for psychotherapy, medical, or clinical treatment.

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Address:  1221 Wayzata Blvd E, Wayzata MN 55391

 

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