For many in recovery one of the most difficult parts of recovery is learning to socialize and enjoy life without their addiction. As addicts, we have spent so much time with our addiction at the center of every activity. It may have started gradually, but at some point became the main focus in our lives. We have to relearn how to socialize, participate in and enjoy life without the crutch.

The habit of addiction or any "uncontrolled compulsive use" is difficult to break without healthy alternatives. That is where R.A.F.T. can help. Recovering Addicts Fellowship Team is designed to help addicts reintegrate themselves into social situations and enjoyable outings and activities without relying on their addictions. It might also be called Recovering Addicts Fun Times.

A raft is a particularly apt symbol evoking the idea of fun times and simple pleasures. A raft is a simply constructed vessel that provides temporary assistance navigating through rough waters. Rafts can start small, but it is easy to join them together to make a larger, more stable vessel, or to add on to make room for more travellers. Anyone can travel on a raft, and usually everyone takes a turn guiding it through the water, learning from each others experiences. Of course, if you don't maintain it, the raft will begin to unravel and fall apart.

With a raft it is easier to navigate obstacles and travel through rapids. If necessary rafts can provide lean-to shelter on dry land and can be put back in the water as needed to continue the journey. A raft provides a sense of freedom, while still maintaining the security, support and camaradary of the group.

You might say that R.A.F.T. makes a S.T.A.R.T. for a new life. S.T.A.R.T - Socializing Together Against Relapse Temptations.