Born in the city, Chuck grew up in an extremely dysfunctional home and eventually wound up in foster care.
Even though he was a bright kid, nothing came easy in his life. Chuck got into chemical addiction early – because it was all around him at home and in the community. He also found it would help deaden the psychological pain he felt.
When he arrived here for our 12-month residential Spiritual Recovery Program, he wasn’t sure he could do this. I had my doubts, too!
Yet, he recently finished his year and graduated. Chuck also decided to continue living on campus in our Graduate Transitional Housing.
I hadn’t seen him for a while and ran into him today. For the past 3 months, Chuck’s been working for one of the major employers in the State of Maryland. He just finished his apprenticeship period which means a promotion.
Chuck said, “This is the first real job I’ve ever had! I was never willing to commit myself to a schedule, especially getting up early and certainly wasn’t willing to accept any responsibility.”
He admitted he’s not really been saving money yet – but he’s going to! Still, he noted, he’s not spending it on drugs or alcohol like he used to! Now that’s progress!
One Day at a Time…For Chuck & All of Us,
Pastor Gary Byers
Deputy Director