By Ray Cox, Program Director
On April 1st, 2021, amidst a year-long pandemic of epic proportions, Christian A. became the second resident to successfully complete the Guidance Center’s residential treatment program which serves men between the ages of eighteen and twenty-six who are residing in Georgia.
Graduations are a special time of celebration at WestCare in which we acknowledge the many community partners, staff, family, and friends for their roles in making recovery possible for those that we serve. Christian received inspiring words of wisdom, hope, and encouragement from the Honorable Chief Magistrate Judge Buck Wilder from Georgia’s Monroe County. The judge shared a personal story on his own family’s experience with addiction and the wreckage that it caused. He encouraged Christian and other residents to use the lessons that they’ve learned at the Guidance Center to overcome life’s challenges.
Christian received congratulations, cards, and gifts from residents as well as his family and staff. However, one of the most moving moments was when his recovery coach presented him with his personal five-year medallion and challenged him to live a sober life and return it to him when he achieves five years of sobriety. After the presentation, he participated in the “hand ceremony” in which his handprint was placed on the “WestCare Tree of Recovery.”
Not only did this graduate leave our facility drug-free, but thanks to his employment coach, he leaves with a full-time job and as a productive member of society.
“I am so proud of the quality care that is provided at this facility on a daily basis by staff,” commented Michael Langford, Regional Vice President, WestCare Georgia.
Recovery still works!
