My first trip through Bridge House was in 2012. I stayed 4 months and left early. I was really not ready at that time, but a seed had been planted. I returned in 2017 with a new outlook and Bridge House welcomed me back. I ended up graduating in 2018 and was offered a job as Assistant Manager of our Airline Thrift Store. Eventually, an opening became available for Store Manager at the Earhart Thrift Store, and I have been here ever since.

First and foremost, I am an alcoholic and drug addict. I was in Orleans Parish Drug Court, facing a sentence of 5 years in the prison system. I had been to at least 4 other treatment programs in the past. They didn’t seem to give me what I needed. I relapsed twice in drug court and the options for me were simple, jail or treatment. I was homeless and out of options and was welcomed back to Bridge House / Grace House with open arms.

While in Bridge House, I was given an opportunity to work on myself and take a break from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. Also, I think the world needed a break from me and my shenanigans. I found a sponsor and worked the Steps of AA, and somewhere between living in a home with 83 other men who were trying to better themselves, therapy, meetings and groups, I felt hope for the first time in my life. It was the springboard I needed to continue to live a different life that I didn’t know was even possible. I still follow the same routine I learned while in treatment, from making my bed in the morning, to showing up early to work, giving whatever task is in front of me 100%, meetings and service work.

I have a life that I never dreamed was possible. Nothing comes easy, but with hard work and dedication, I know that I don’t have to pick up and use again. I am not alone in the struggles of life (and there are plenty). There are many roads that lead to recovery, I am grateful for the community and family I gained as a recovering alcoholic/drug addict.

I have now been sober for 7 years. Something I never thought I would be able to say. Bridge House / Grace House is so near and dear to my heart because I found a new life there. As the Earhart Thrift Store Manager, I know that the work my coworkers and I do every day, helps people who will never know our names. They will never know how many people care and work tirelessly to ensure that Bridge House / Grace House continues to be a shining beacon of hope in the community which we are so proud to call home.