Every September, National Recovery Month shines a light on the millions of people facing addiction and searching for ways forward. In Denver, a small nonprofit called HoliHub is showing that recovery can be something more than meetings in a basement or a strict one-size-fits-all program. It can be community, compassion, and even creativity.
A Different Kind of Recovery
In its first year, HoliHub has already reached more than 500 people through peer-led recovery meetings, one-on-one counseling, and holistic workshops online and in person. The approach is designed to be accessible: programs are offered on a sliding-scale basis so cost doesn’t become a barrier.
That mix of affordability and trust is working. Eight out of ten participants come back, a return rate that signals something powerful is happening here.
Now the group is trying to raise $72,000 to open The Holistic Hub, a physical space in Denver where people can gather for counseling, coaching, group therapy, and workshops. The campaign runs through October and will decide if this dream becomes real.
From Rock Bottom to Renewal
For founder Jared “Shimi” Mermelstein, HoliHub is rooted in lived experience.
“HoliHub grew out of my own experience — from hitting rock bottom to finding a new way forward,” Mermelstein says. “Healing isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey and it’s not about fitting a mold.”
That philosophy sets the tone. Some people come to HoliHub seeking sobriety. Others practice conscious cannabis use as part of harm reduction. Some are just trying to make it through the day. All of them are welcome without judgment.
Breaking Stigma, Building Bridges
Recovery culture has often been defined by stigma. Either you fit a specific idea of what “getting better” looks like, or you are seen as failing. HoliHub rejects that idea. By holding space for many different approaches to healing, …
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Author: High Times / High Times
