Kelly Butzer
Kelly Butzer is an accomplished Behavioral Health professional specializing in alumni engagement, program development, and client care for individuals in long-term recovery. Currently serving as the National Alumni Relations Manager at Sandstone Care, she leads the development and management of national alumni programs, fostering meaningful connections with former clients and their families. With a strong focus on community building and recovery support, Kelly ensures that alumni have access to resources, guidance, and ongoing engagement to maintain long-term sobriety and personal growth.
Kelly’s journey into behavioral health is deeply personal. Drawing from her own experiences with addiction and recovery, she transitioned from a successful career in restaurant operations to building a nationally recognized alumni program from the ground up. Her personal insight into the challenges of recovery has shaped her approach to program management, emphasizing empathy, care, and a client-centered philosophy. Over the past five years, she has expanded Sandstone Care’s alumni engagement across multiple regions, implementing data-driven strategies to improve outcomes and strengthen post-treatment support.
In addition to her professional work, Kelly is an active leader in the recovery community. She serves on the Executive Board of Treatment Professionals in Alumni Services (TPAS) and is Co-President of the organization’s Colorado chapter, demonstrating her commitment to advancing best practices in alumni care and recovery support. Kelly holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and a Peer Recovery certification from CCAR Recovery Specialists. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, camping, and exploring the outdoors with her Great Pyrenees, reflecting her passion for personal growth and wellness both professionally and personally.
• Peer Recovery, CCAR Recovery Specialists
• University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire – Bachelor of Arts, English Language and Literature
• Board of Directors, Treatment Professionals in Alumni Services
• Executive Board Member & Co-President, TPAS Colorado Chapter
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to persistence, passion, and a willingness to learn. My personal experience with addiction and recovery taught me the value of resilience, self-advocacy, and committing fully to the work I care deeply about. Being open to guidance from mentors and embracing opportunities to grow professionally has been instrumental in building the national alumni program at Sandstone Care.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I ever received was to never doubt myself. A mentor encouraged me to advocate for myself, speak up for my ideas, and recognize my worth. This guidance gave me the courage to take on leadership responsibilities, build programs from the ground up, and persist through challenges in my career.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women to show their passion, dedication, and willingness to learn. Success comes from being persistent, demonstrating care for the people you serve, and being open to growth even when you don’t have all the answers. Advocate for yourself, trust your abilities, and don’t be afraid to take opportunities as they arise.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Empathy, compassion, and a genuine commitment to helping others are at the core of both my professional and personal life. I prioritize fostering meaningful relationships and supporting individuals in their recovery journeys, ensuring they have access to the guidance and resources they need for long-term success.