“It hasn’t been easy, but I keep moving forward” says Karen. Watch her powerful and inspiring video.
I am so grateful for Sunrise's help.
Karen spent years cycling in and out of jail, battling trauma, unhealthy relationships, and substance use. She was charged with drug trafficking and spent 10 years in prison, where she enrolled in Wake Community College and earned multiple certificates. After her release, Karen was determined to utilize her education and make a better life. She reached out to Kelsey Moore, Sunrise’s Peer Support Specialist, knowing she couldn’t do it alone.
Kelsey jumped into action immediately. Karen secured housing in a recovery house vetted through our Recovery Housing Program, with Sunrise covering her first month’s rent to help her get back on her feet. Sunrise also provided clothes, groceries, and a phone so she could start applying for jobs. Kelsey stayed in close contact, offering regular check-ins and continued support.
Within two weeks from her release from prison, Karen landed a job—and quickly began to excel. When she was promoted to kitchen manager, Sunrise got her a laptop so she could manage her staff’s schedules. At the end of the year she was named Employee of the Year, and eventually enrolled in the culinary program at AB Tech, fully funded by her employer.
Two years later, Karen is still living in the recovery house, and she’s thriving. She stays in regular contact with Kelsey and has connected her peers with Sunrise. She’s grateful for the support and resources she received and tells people that if she can overcome addiction, anyone can.
Kelsey always expressed to me how much better I was than what I was thinking. She's my rock. My inspiration.
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- LEARN ABOUT THE SOLUTIONS: Schedule a Peers of Hope Presentation and get a comprehensive overview on the issues surround substance use disorder and mental health challenges and how Sunrise’s unique peer supported programming helps our community of peers struggling with trauma. Contact Jodi Ford at JFord@sunriseinasheville.org or call 828-299-7470.
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