OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Sometimes we all need a little extra help, no matter our age or station in life.
Robert Cooper, CEO and founder of Zero Hour Life Center, along with co-founder Mary Jenson, recognized that need in Ocala and established the center in 2016 to offer substance use disorder recovery support.
Who they are and what they do
Cooper says that Zero Hour Life is a dynamic Recovery Community Organization (RCO) dedicated to providing comprehensive recovery support services across multiple counties in Florida, including Marion, Citrus, Lake, Sumter, Hernando, Alachua, Levy, and Gilchrist. “We also have 13 northern counties as far as Hamiliton County and we run a First Responder Program called ‘RescueWell,'” says Cooper. “In that program, we support our first responders on a peer-to-peer level.”
Comprehensive services
At Zero Hour Life, Cooper says they offer a wide range of services designed to support individuals on their recovery journey. Their offerings include:
- Peer support: A certified peer specialist provides guidance and support throughout the recovery process
- Respite services: Temporary relief for caregivers and individuals in recovery
- SOAR program: Assistance with SSI/SSDI programs, outreach, access, and recovery
- All recovery support meetings: Inclusive meetings for individuals in recovery
- Monthly sober activities: Engaging activities to promote a sober lifestyle
- SEN program: Support for Substance Exposed Newborns
- Access Florida benefits: Help with SNAP/Medicaid applications
- CORI program: Criminal Offender Reentry Initiative to aid reintegration
“We are committed to educating, empowering, and advocating for people in recovery,” says Cooper. “Ensuring they have the resources and support they need to thrive.”
How to get involved
Cooper says that getting involved with Zero Hour Life is easy. You can visit the recovery center at 3391 E Silver Springs Blvd. in Ocala or give them a call at (352) 765-4943. “We also host recovery events in our counties, and anyone is welcome to come and speak with us that way, too,” said Cooper.
Making an impact
“We take great pride in the positive impact we have had in the communities we serve. Since our founding, we have helped almost 2,200 individuals navigate peer recovery support and/or social security benefits,” Cooper said. “Our events aim to educate the public about substance use disorders, break the stigma around addiction, and provide resources in our communities.”
Support for participants
Cooper says that support extends beyond recovery meetings. “We link participants to essential community resources, helping them secure housing, employment, social services, mental health services, and more,” he said. “Our dedicated team of Peer Specialists and support staff work tirelessly to break down barriers and ensure individuals have the support they need to achieve long-term recovery.”
Strong partnerships
“Zero Hour Life Center has many partnerships in the counties we serve,” Cooper said. “We feel that building partnerships and collaborating with other agencies is one of the best ways to help the individuals we serve.”
Community events and fundraisers
Cooper says they host several community events and fundraisers, including the Hernando Recovery Fest, Recovery on The Square, and the prestigious Red Carpet Recovery Gala.
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“Each event involves a participatory planning process from the community. This is done during our weekly Outreach Planning Committee meeting,” he continued. “Many of these events include guest speakers, music, food, vendors, and sponsors. This is a great way to build recovery connections and strengthen the recovery community. We believe one of the best ways to break the stigma of addiction and educate the community is by recovering out loud.”
Volunteer and community engagement
“We welcome community engagement in the form of volunteers at the RCO or community events,” Cooper said. “We invite anyone interested in helping to plan an event to join our weekly Outreach Planning Committee.”
The meeting is held every Thursday at 7:00 p.m. on Zoom.
Upcoming events
“We are very excited to host Rare of Breed in concert this weekend. Rare of Breed combines Country and Christian music infused with Hip-Hop to create a musical style he calls ‘GodTwang,'” Cooper said. “Rare of Breed has his own recovery journey and many of our participants and staff are looking forward to this event because of how his music is enjoyable and lyrics are relatable.”
The concert is Saturday, June 8, starting at 6 p.m. at the Kingdom Revival Church on 3318 E Silver Springs Blvd. in Ocala. Tickets cost $20 for adults.
For more information about Zero Hour Life Center meetings and events, click here.