Christopher Assini is a person in long-term recovery and currently serves as the Director of Policy at Friends of Recovery – New York (FOR-NY). In this role, he works to advance recovery-oriented policies and support systems across the state. Prior to joining FOR-NY, Christopher served in the New York State Senate, where he played a key role in verifying, analyzing, and approving legislation. His work was instrumental in shaping budgetary policy and providing critical support to Senate members on legislative matters.

Born and raised in the Capital Region, Christopher has a deep-rooted love for the area and a strong belief in the power of community. He currently sits on the Board of Hive of Hope, a grassroots organization dedicated to supporting individuals in early recovery.

Christopher is a graduate of the University at Albany, a proud husband, dog dad, avid hiker, and weather enthusiast. His passion for advocacy began during his time as Program Manager at a local nonprofit in Albany, where he led efforts to empower individuals with disabilities. There, he founded and chaired a steering committee focused on advocacy and empowerment, organized numerous events including lobby days at the Capitol, and spearheaded strategic advocacy campaigns.

Christopher is deeply committed to supporting the recovery community and believes in the transformative power of peer support, engagement, and collective action.