I struggled with addiction for more than 20 years. I was in and out of jail, experienced homelessness, and felt incredibly alone. The last time I was incarcerated, I was hopeless enough to finally give a 12-step program a try. I found a sponsor I adored, and for the first time in a long time, life was beginning to look up.

I entered FISH’s transitional housing program and was introduced to CIRCLES. Early in my recovery, I was fearful, unsure of myself, and learning how to live a completely different way of life. CIRCLES gave me a community where I could begin to trust people, accept support, and believe that I belonged.

I made meaningful connections with mentors who believed in me and encouraged me. Six years later, some of those people are still an important part of my life.

CIRCLES also changed the way I understood poverty. I learned that poverty is about much more than finances. We can experience poverty in our relationships, support systems, confidence, and connections. CIRCLES helped me begin building social capital at a time when I had very little of it.

Each week, I would show up and be welcomed with open arms—literally, with hugs and smiles. I learned the value of having people in my corner and, just as importantly, how to become that person for someone else.

Connection and support are incredibly important in recovery, and I found both at CIRCLES. I found a loving group of people who encouraged me, held me accountable, reminded me of my worth, and walked beside me as I continued building a new life.

When I graduated from CIRCLES in 2021, my journey was really just beginning.

Since then, I have earned my certification as a Peer Recovery Support Specialist and worked in positions where I have been able to help others and give back to my community. I went on to earn my bachelor’s degree in social work and become a Licensed Social Worker. Today, I work in a residential substance use treatment facility, helping people prepare to transition out of treatment and into their new lives in recovery.

Through all of these milestones, there have been times when I needed support and guidance;
and CIRCLES was there.

When I look at how far I have come, I can see how the lessons I learned through CIRCLES continue to be part of my life. I went from being uncertain about life and unsure of myself to building a life centered on recovery, connection, service, and helping others.

CIRCLES showed me the power of community when I needed it most. Today, I have the privilege of helping others build the connections and support they need to begin creating new lives of their own.

“CIRCLES helped me begin building social capital at a time when I had very little of it.”

-Jodi