Meet Charles

Meet Charles

                          Alcohol and drugs nearly ruined Charles’ life at a young age. Both of his parents struggled with drug abuse, and his mother died from complications of addiction when he was 14. By the time police arrested Charles for drug possession, he’d spend months on the streets, and was homeless, living in a tent. “I was burnt out and my health was in bad shape,” he recalls. “I was 27 years old and just waiting for things to end.” The police officer arresting Charles told him that if he really wanted to change, he could! That bit of encouragement was a life saver.

Though the next stop was jail, Charles says, “That was the last day I got high. That day changed my life.”  Once Charles was released from jail, he came straight to Healing House. It was wonderful to sleep in a clean bed and eat good meals each day, but Charles says he appreciated getting his self-respect and confidence back most. “In my addiction, I’d forgotten who I was.” As Charles attended classes and counseling, he realized he could now help others dealing with addiction. “We can share our experience, strength and hope—that’s something you hear a lot here.”

          Today, he is an employment specialist, matching Healing House participants with local businesses, and a Certified Peer Specialist. Charles is using his own success to make a difference in the lives of others and help them achieve sobriety.