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The Retreat: Minnesota Recovery Programs
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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...
The 4H’s of Recovery

The 4H’s of Recovery

by Major John Donovan, contributing blog writer | Dec 31, 2025 | 12 Steps, Alcoholics Anonymous, Recovery, Recovery Program

A popular adolescent development program is called 4-H. It stands for: Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. The 4-H program helps develop leadership, public speaking, and problem-solving skills, in adolescents and teens. It also focuses on improved academic performance and...
« Older Entries
  • 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
  • tilt shift lens photography of man standing near body of water
    Why Getting Sober at 30 Changed My Life
    by Alex Curtiss M.A.
  • man in gray sweater carrying woman in black jacket
    Sponsorship in Alcoholics Anonymous: Building Lasting Recovery Connections
    by Major John Donovan, contributing blog writer
  • Rebuild Your Finances and Life After Addiction Ends Your Business
    by Constance Ray
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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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Phone: 866-928-3434
Phone: 952-476-0566
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Email: info@theretreat.org

Address:  1221 Wayzata Blvd E, Wayzata MN 55391

 

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