Miguelito Rivera’s Colorado Favorites: Recognizing two organizations that support recovery communities

Aug. 22, 2025

Note: Direct quotes were edited for typos, to observe AP style guidelines and to fit the listicle structure.

Miguelito Rivera, the founder of Denver-based arts and community-centric organization Aquí, recognizes the benefits that local organizations bring to art and recovery communities.

For his “Favorites” entry, Rivera highlighted two organizations that support Colorado community members in addiction recovery.

1.  The Phoenix

According to their website, The Phoenix is a national organization that helps people in recovery connect with others through local sober events. They offer both in-person and virtual options to explore, and attendees who participate in three can then volunteer and organize activities.

The events are all meant to serve as safe spaces and create a sense of belonging, which Aquí strives to do in every event they host.

All of Aquí’s events and classes are free, open to the public and often posted on The Phoenix, along with all of the information a potential attendee needs to make an appearance.

2.  Colorado Artists in Recovery

Colorado Artists in Recovery hosts creativity-focused workshops that promote self-expression and prioritize inclusivity. According to their website, the organization also encourages artists and attendees to share their creations and form connections.

Their September event and workshop lineup includes weekly evening trauma-informed yoga sessions, an open mic, drum circles and more.

Workshops take place around Northern Colorado, in Denver and online. Most of them require registration via CAiR’s website due to limited space. Events mainly take place in Denver locations.

According to their Instagram bio, all of their offerings are free. Those interested can view their full event and workshop calendar here.