Life Is Beautiful!
Photo credit: S:US
We weren’t originally scheduled to interview her, but Carrie W. was beaming from ear to ear and could not wait to share her story. She has been a Brooklyn Clubhouse member since 2011. A year later she attended S:US’ Peer Education class and after graduating, we hired her as a Peer Specialist. This was the first stepping stone for Carrie to obtain a job with another nonprofit as a client advocate.
Before coming to S:US’ Brooklyn Clubhouse, life was difficult for Carrie and she sought solace in drugs. After experiencing the debilitating problems that come with addiction, she approached the Brooklyn Clubhouse where staff encouraged her to join Narcotics Anonymous and undergo a period of counseling and treatment at our Clinic. In 2014 our Mobile team awarded Carrie a certificate of achievement in recognition of the great progress she made on her road to recovery from drug addiction.
Today Carrie is proud to declare that she has been drug-free for the past 7 years. She is an enthusiastic Brooklyn Clubhouse ambassador, especially when she presents at conventions, rehab and detox centers where she shares her experiences and challenges with people who are currently struggling with drug addictions. Carrie exclaims, “I just enjoy life. It’s just so beautiful. And it all started here at the S:US Brooklyn Clubhouse. I’m in the field that I love – I love my work!” She added, “When I wake up in the morning, I’m happy. S:US has helped me get my life together, and put me in the right direction. I am so grateful!”