Making Strides, Changing Lives
However, Pioneer is not a handout; it is a hand-up. You need to want your success and really work for it. You can’t give excuses as it is your responsibility to stay on a positive path and be accountable for your actions.
I now find myself working with individuals who have just been released after spending one to three decades in prison. I listen to their stories and try to help them become more comfortable using email, computers and cell phones. It is not easy to re-enter society after being locked away all those years! I try to go slow with new employees and help them succeed. I probably learn as much from them as they are learning from me – it is always a double reward.”
Over the years, I have been in and out of prisons, mental health institutions, detox facilities and homeless shelters all over this great country of ours. I have struggled with addiction and bad choices for most of my life. I always knew that I had a problem with drugs and alcohol but I picked up a survival techniques that sustained my habit and had me living in a wide variety of places.
I ended up in Bellingham, Washington and was told about Whatcom Community Detox and my number was given to staff. The Whatcom staff actually called me back offering me a shower, food and a bed to sleep in while I detoxed. I connected with the staff and realized I had no home to release to and that it was time I got serious about recovery. After graduating from residential treatment, I called Whatcom Community Detox and asked for advice. Staff encouraged me to do something positive that I always wanted to do. I enrolled in college and got my Associate degree in Chemical Dependency/Human Services from Skagit Community College and went on to receive a Bachelor’s degree from Western Washington University.
Eventually, I accepted a position at Whatcom Community Detox – coming full circle – and have the opportunity to assist people like me in recovery.