WVU Collegiate Recovery Goes Virtual | COVID-19

written by Gillian Wanosky

It’s safe to say that the last few months have left everyone feeling a little lost or uncertain. With the aftermath of COVID-19 continuing to develop, people needed a way to rise above their worries. Thanks to the WVU Collegiate Recovery Program’s new online platform, students and community members have a way to do just that—all from the comfort of their homes.

The WVU Collegiate Recovery Program knew that the community needed them more than ever, even when the restrictions began. Director Olivia Pape took over the program in April, and she said the program mobilized extremely quickly.

“It is really important to have consistency and connection, so I think—as a program—we really recognized that we had to find ways to make our programming accessible from wherever our students were at.”

The Recovery Program created a consistent Zoom link that offers programs during every hour that they would normally be open on campus, running from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. every weekday. Some of the programs offered include Goal Setting, Meditation, Book Study and Game Hour. Pape said people can either participate in the programs regularly or just drop in to visit.

“Programs are a jumping-off point for conversation,” she said. “You don’t have to talk. Sometimes, it’s just nice to ‘be’ with other people.”

However, mental wellbeing programs are not the only aspect of the virtual program. Pape teamed up with the WVU Campus Recreation Center to offer fitness programs tailored to all levels of students who want to work out at home. Workout classes are offered every Tuesday at noon. The program also offers yoga on Tuesdays at 6 p.m., a class that the program has regularly offered in the past.

“They helped me compile a list of some beginner-friendly videos where you don’t need equipment necessarily or a ton of space,” Pape said.

The program has seen consistent attendance from students, community members and faculty—even in the summer months that typically show a downtick in attendance. This has given the WVU Collegiate Recovery program an opportunity to break down barriers, as the idea of physical separation can help encourage those who may be nervous to seek assistance otherwise.

“You can still access the resources, practice self-care and get support from wherever you’re at,” Pape said.

Plans to keep these virtual events around even after the pandemic is over are already in the works. The program has reached people from beyond Morgantown, including members of WVU Potomac State College.

“When I didn’t work for the program and I wanted to get to an activity or event, sometimes it was hard for me to get there in person because of work schedules,” Pape said. “We can be innovative and provide services to people wherever we’re at.”

The program is open to everyone, and people can receive the Zoom link and password by emailing Pape at olivia.pape@mail.wvu.edu. The password is used to protect program attendees and ensure they feel comfortable and are free of worries and fears. A complete list of the program’s weekly schedule can be found of the WVU Collegiate Recovery Program’s website.

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