My name is Michele Edelman, and I am a Peer Recovery Coach in the Sterling Office of Advocates for Recovery Colorado (AFRC). I’ve called Sterling home since 2017.

I was introduced to AFRC after I had completed Peer support training. Through this training, I was introduced to the Intern Program with AFRC. Becoming a coach has been a dream of mine since I began my recovery journey. It has played a major role in my own recovery, encouraging me to keep working towards bettering myself and growing, so I could eventually help others to grow in their recovery. In June 2025, I completed the Peer & Family Support Training, and I’m currently working toward my Colorado Peer and Family Specialist (CPFS) certification. I joined the AFRC team as a Peer Recovery Coach in September 2025.

I’ve been in active and sustained recovery from alcohol since 2023. Through the support from my loved ones, my community and groups, I’ve been able to maintain my recovery and build my life around the recovery community. It is important to me to be able to give this same support to others and to inspire others to achieve success.

I am a wife and mom of 2 daughters. I also have 5 grandchildren. I spend most of my free time on the weekends playing with my grandchildren. I also love to garden. It’s another beautiful way to see life grow with love and care. Recovery has helped me see so much more of the beauty in life.

Through empathy, active listening, and shared experience, I am excited to help people build confidence, develop recovery skills, and connect with community resources.