I've been working in the recovery field for 25 years. And I've been sober for over 26 years.
By working, I mean housing recovering addicts and alcoholics until they can find work. Get a car, a wardrobe, an apartment. All the things it takes to make a new beginning in life.
Our organization, (TLC) transitional Living Communities, does this without government funding or grants. A couple of times in the past few years we've received a check from Boeing Aircraft. Usually it's about $10,000, enough to last us for one to two days of operating expenses. Not a large sum, but something we're grateful for because it means someone thinks we're doing a good job.
And I'll help us feed our 700 plus residents for a few days..
Besides our halfway houses, we also operate a state-licensed treatment program that will hold about 60 clients. We also own a state licensed roofing and remodeling company, a day labor company for those who have trouble finding a job right away. At several of our locations we operate small convenience stores that have been self-supporting for some time. I hate to admit it, but most of our profits come from things like sodas, cigarettes and junk food. But the profits helps pay the bills
We also have developed an LBGTQ housing program for addicts with sexual or gender differences. Their residences are among the cleanest and best operated in TLC. Interestingly, it's also one of the most successful parts of the program.
And one final thing: We do all of this without many professionals on our staff. We do have licensed counselors running our treatment program. And we have CPAs and professional accountants who help us keep the books straight.
Other than that it’s simply addicts helping other addicts.
