Recovery Community Organizations, or RCOs, are independent, nonprofit organizations led and governed by people in recovery from substance use disorder. To be certified by MARCO, an RCO must demonstrate competency in eleven evaluation areas based on national standards and state statutes. Over the next few months, we’ll showcase some of the first RCOs to receive MARCO certification, delving into their stories, successes, and how they connect to MARCO’s mission: educate, advocate, and mobilize the grassroots recovery movement across Minnesota.
This month, we sat down with sat down with Rise Up Recovery’s co-founders, Tiffany and Chad Neuharth, and asked them to talk about how they got involved in the grassroots recovery movement.
MARCO: How did your organization begin? Can you share your story?
RISE UP Recovery: RISE UP Recovery was founded by Tiffany and Chad, a couple in long-term recovery, who saw critical gaps in support for individuals both entering and maintaining recovery. Grounded in their Christian faith and over 30 years of combined experience, they walk alongside others on the challenging path to healing. Their mission is to reduce stigma, offer hope, and empower people in recovery to find freedom and purpose. By fostering community and sharing their faith, RISE UP Recovery helps individuals heal and ultimately inspire others through their own transformation.
MARCO: Do you have any advice or tips for someone just starting grassroots efforts in the recovery community?
RISE UP Recovery: Starting a grassroots recovery organization begins with staying true to your mission and leading with heart. Listen to your community without judgment, recognizing that every recovery journey is unique. Stay informed on local and federal guidelines to ensure compliance and sustainability. Most importantly, let compassion and authenticity guide your work—these are the foundations of real impact.
MARCO: What is the most rewarding part of working in recovery for you?
RISE UP Recovery: The most rewarding part of working in recovery is witnessing lives redeemed and dignity restored. It’s incredibly powerful to see individuals rebuild relationships, form meaningful connections, and reclaim a sense of purpose and hope.
MARCO: How do you see RCOs best collaborating to build an ecosystem of recovery?
RISE UP Recovery: I see Recovery Community Organizations (RCOs) collaborating best when they use their strengths to support each other’s weaknesses. By coming together, they can more effectively educate the public, share resources, and reduce the stigma surrounding recovery and substance use disorders—creating a stronger, more united impact for the community.
MARCO: What are the biggest tools your organization offers to people sustaining their recovery?
RISE UP Recovery: At RISE UP Recovery, our greatest tool in helping individuals sustain recovery is connection. No matter where someone is on their journey, we’re committed to meeting them exactly where they are—without judgment. Through genuine relationships, we offer support and resources for whatever their next step may be, walking alongside them every step of the way.
MARCO: Could you tell us more about the service area(s) your organization specializes in? How and/or why did your organization develop this specialization? What is something you are most proud of?
RISE UP Recovery: RISE UP Recovery specializes in recovery housing for men, women, and women with children, providing safe and supportive environments for healing. We offer Peer Recovery Specialist (PRS) services both within our homes and throughout the community, along with hosting recovery groups at our community center. For those pursuing a career in recovery support, we provide the RCA and continuing education to become certified PRSs. Most recently, we’ve had the honor of bringing recovery and hope into Dakota County Jail—extending our mission to those who need it most.
MARCO: What does “building a recovery-oriented future” mean to you?
RISE UP Recovery: To us, building a recovery-oriented future means intentionally connecting with youth. They are the next generation, and by addressing substance use disorder early, we have the opportunity to break cycles, offer hope, and pave the way for a brighter, healthier future rooted in healing and resilience.
MARCO: How do you see RCOs best serving greater MN?
RISE UP Recovery: I see Recovery Community Organizations (RCOs) best serving Minnesota by filling the gap that clinicians and traditional recovery professionals often can’t—by being deeply embedded in the community and truly accessible. RCOs offer peer-led, grassroots support that meets individuals where they are, providing real-time help, connection, and hope for those struggling with substance use.
MARCO: What does it mean to you to be a MARCO-certified RCO?
RISE UP Recovery: RISE UP Recovery is honored to be MARCO certified, reflecting our commitment to the highest standards and ethical guidelines. Staying current with government regulations, we operate with integrity and excellence, and we are proud to hold this certification.
