What is Lancers Recover?
Lancers Recover uses a peer-to-peer mentorship model to create an intentional and recovery-affirming environment where students who are interested in or seeking recovery from problematic alcohol and substance use can receive the assistance and support they need to achieve academic and personal success. We provide weekly recovery meetings in which we support all pathways to recovery and do not require abstinence, but merely a desire to explore personal substance use to reduce harm caused by substances. We also hold social events, community outreach, leadership opportunities, and education on campus to normalize the recovery identity and decrease stigma related to substance use.
What is Recovery?
Recovery (from alcohol, drugs, and/or behavioural addictions) can mean anything you want it to, and is unique to each person. Recovery is a journey. It is not a single event, but a process with ups and downs which occurs over time, with ongoing work. Recovery is a dynamic process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential. Recovery is built upon a foundation of hope - the belief that the challenges and conditions of addiction can be overcome. (SAMHSA, 2012)
What is Collegiate / Student Recovery?
Collegiate recovery programs began in the U.S. in the 1980s as a form of recovery support for post-secondary students with substance use issues. Collegiate recovery programs. According to the Association of Recovery in Higher Education, "A Collegiate Recovery Program (CRP) is a college or university-provided program that includes a supportive environment within the campus culture. CRPs reinforce the decision to engage in a lifestyle of recovery from addiction/substance use disorder. It is designed to provide an educational opportunity alongside recovery supports to ensure that students do not have to sacrifice one for the other." Over the past 40 years, collegiate recovery programs have grown in the U.S. and expanded to both Canada and the United Kingdom. In Canada, the term "Student Recovery Program" is used to describe these support services. For more information about collegiate / student recovery, visit the Association of Recovery in Higher Education (ARHE)'s website. Lancers Recover is a proud member of ARHE.
Meeting and Event Information
Weekly All-Recovery Meetings Winter 2026 Info
We offer All-Recovery peer-support meetings every Thursday morning at 11am and afternoon at 2pm.
There is no commitment, no cost, and no notice required - just drop in and say hello! These meetings are intended for any person who is sober-curious, looking to reduce their substance use or unhealthy behaviour patterns, or anyone who identifies as a person in recovery. This is a judgement-free, safe space where students can explore a pathway of recovery that works for them. Each meeting will provide an opportunity to reflect on a self-care reading and allow for sharing one's views in a safe space. Please email lancersrecover@uwindsor.ca if you have any questions.
In-person: Chrysler Hall North Room G129 or
Peer Support Coffee Chats
Join us for peer-to-peer recovery discussions and check-ins. This is a judgement-free, safe space where students can explore a pathway of recovery that works for them. Allies are also welcome during peer support hours to show support and learn about resources!
Drop by CHN G129 for a free coffee or tea and chat about your week with our peer support volunteers!
Mondays:
10am - 1pm | Jude
1pm - 4pm | Brandi
Tuesdays:
11:30am - 1pm | Emily
2:30pm - 5pm | Melak
Wednesdays:
10am - 1pm | Luke
1pm - 4pm | Brian
4pm - 7pm | Debra
Thursdays:
10am - 4pm | Jay & Stella
Trainings / Workshops
Lancers Recover currently offers Recovery Ally Training to the University of Windsor community. Recovery Ally Training is designed to increase understanding of addiction, decrease stigma and bias associated with it, and to provide specific tools and language for effective allyship. During this session, facilitated by Lancers Recover staff, participants will use a recovery-informed lens to understand their role as allies and gain knowledge of available resources to support students who use substances or are in recovery from substance use.
To request Recovery Ally Training for your class, club, group, or society, please email lancersrecover@uwindsor.ca!
Events
Join us on Thursday, January 29, 2026 between 12-3pm for a Winter Open House! Meet some of the peer support volunteers for the semester, chat with community recovery partners, have a mocktail on us, and engage in fun and fellowship!
The open house will be in the student lounge in Chrysler Hall North G129 - no RSVP required, just drop in!
Kick off the new year with a reset that feels good - and doesn’t require labels or pressure. Dry January has become a global movement as more people choose to pause and reflect on their relationship with alcohol and prioritize wellness, balance, and healthier coping strategies. At Lancers Recover, we support students who are exploring recovery or simply looking to create healthier habits - whether that means taking a break from alcohol, cannabis, gaming, sugar, or anything else that’s been feeling out of balance. Stop by for peer support (hours posted above) or join one of our all-recovery meetings on Thursdays (11am or 2pm) in Chrysler Hall North G129. No registration needed - just drop in, connect, and enjoy snacks and refreshments. Your month can still be fresh and fun - come chat with us about what your January looks like!
Contact Us
Email lancersrecover@uwindsor.ca to join our email list or get involved.
Follow us on Instagram: @LancersRecover
Follow us on Facebook: @LancersRecoverProgram
Donate
We are currently funded for one part-time staff through the Division of Student Affairs. Additional funding has been provided by Ignite for student workers, and the Student Mental Health Strategy Fund. Operating expenses are covered by the generous donations of individuals and organizations who support the work that we are doing. If you are able to donate, we offer our sincere gratitude, as funding is critical for the continuation of substance use support for students!
Make a donation to the Lancers Recover Program by utilizing the University of Windsor's Donation form. Clicking this link should pre-populate with the program title but if not, please enter "Lancers Recover Program, Account #40957"
Tax receipts will be given for donations over $20. Reg. #10816 2611 RR0001.
Share About the Program
Download the PDF attachments to share about the Lancers Recover Program!