The Portland, Oregon, community is mourning the unexpected passing of Brent Canode, a visionary leader and advocate for recovery services. As the Executive Director of the Alano Club of Portland and co-founder of multiple groundbreaking recovery organizations, Brent dedicated his life to supporting individuals in recovery and reshaping the landscape of addiction treatment and support services.
Born and raised in Lakeport, California, Brent later made Portland his home, where he became a transformative figure in the recovery community. His academic background at the University of Oregon’s Graduate School of Planning, Public Policy, and Management laid the foundation for his career in nonprofit leadership, policy development, and advocacy for recovery-focused initiatives.
A Passion for Recovery and Community Support
Brent’s impact extended across multiple organizations that he helped build and lead. As a co-founder of Peak Recovery PNW, RecoveryLink, Harmony Academy, and The Recovery Gym, he was instrumental in creating spaces where individuals could heal, rebuild, and find a sense of belonging.
His belief in a holistic approach to recovery—incorporating fitness, education, and peer support—helped shape innovative programs that empowered countless individuals on their recovery journeys.
His leadership at the Alano Club of Portland exemplified his unwavering commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive recovery community. Under his guidance, the club became a cornerstone for individuals seeking a sober, supportive environment. His advocacy work reached national levels, influencing policy and expanding access to recovery resources.
Beyond his direct contributions to recovery organizations, Brent served as the Board President of Unity Recovery, a role in which he helped guide the nonprofit’s mission of expanding access to peer-led recovery support services. His work as Section Editor for the Journal of Recovery Science further demonstrated his dedication to advancing research and evidence-based approaches to recovery.
A Life Dedicated to Service and Empowerment
Brent’s leadership was not just about creating programs—it was about empowering people. He had a unique ability to connect with individuals, offering guidance, mentorship, and encouragement. Those who knew him describe him as a compassionate, driven, and deeply generous person who believed in the power of community and second chances.
His work at Harmony Academy, Oregon’s first recovery high school, provided young people with a safe space to pursue education while maintaining their sobriety. Similarly, The Recovery Gym was founded on his belief that physical wellness plays a crucial role in mental and emotional recovery, helping people regain strength and confidence through fitness and movement.
Brent’s influence was not confined to Oregon; his impact resonated across the country, inspiring recovery leaders, policymakers, and advocates to push for more inclusive and effective recovery programs. His dedication to policy reform and public advocacy helped shape policies that continue to benefit countless individuals seeking sobriety and support.
A Profound Loss to the Recovery Community
Brent’s passing is a significant loss, not only to his family and friends but also to the broader recovery community. His work was far from just a career—it was a calling. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, resilience, and transformative change that will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.
As Portland and the recovery community process this tragic loss, tributes continue to pour in from those whose lives he touched. Many remember him as a leader, mentor, and advocate whose vision changed the way recovery services are provided. His legacy will live on through the organizations he built and the countless individuals he helped guide toward a brighter future.
At this time, details regarding memorial services and tributes in Brent’s honor are forthcoming. The community he dedicated his life to will undoubtedly come together to celebrate and honor his contributions, ensuring that his passion for recovery and support continues to thrive.