Nearly a decade ago, Sarah began to transform her life! Before moving into Bothy Cottage in a Sponsors community, Sarah had fought her way out of addiction but was sentenced to 16 months in prison. At the time, she was estranged from her two older children; her youngest daughter, Suzanna, had just been born. As Sarah’s release date neared, she was eager to start changing. “I knew Sponsors was my lifeline,” she explained. She was reunited with Suzanna when she transitioned from prison to Bothy Cottage. “I was so grateful to be there –to have a safe, comfortable, and supportive place as I figured out how to do the next right thing.” Sarah knew the pieces would fall into place if she did the next right thing.

Sarah wanted to be a productive community member. She describes, “Addiction made me a person that poured nothing good into the community, and I knew that wasn’t what I wanted for this life. Change was scary but also exciting!” The staff at Sponsors and Sarah’s mentor were there to support her along the way. They offered her the stepping stones, but she created her pathway forward. “So many of my needs were met while living in Bothy, and I had time to figure out what to do next.” Sarah worked hard, studied, and got her GED. She also got a part-time job in hospitality. She realized she wanted to go to school for graphic design. With support, she applied for funding and was able to enroll at LCC. After a year, she was ready to stand independently; she moved into an affordable apartment with her daughter.

Years later, Sarah has continued creating her pathway forward! She is successful in her career and thankful for her time in Bothy Cottage. “Sponsors is such a big part of my personal success story!” With community support and determination, Sarah has built a stable and hopeful life for herself and her three children. Though she still faces challenges, she savors the small moments, like a beautiful sunset. She is also profoundly grateful for the big moments, like watching her two older children graduate from high school. “Today, I love being a good mom and pouring everything I have into my three kids, and I get to be a positive member of the recovery community, too.” Sarah shares. Sarah’s experience is a beautiful reminder of the profound impact that a supportive mentor combined with a safe transitional home has had on so many lives! We’re grateful for the community support that has offered many transformative second chances to individuals like Sarah.

In May, Sarah will celebrate 10 years of sobriety. She has cultivated a fulfilling career working for a local credit union. She also does freelance photography. She loves being a dance mom, and now gives back as one of Sponsors volunteer mentors! “It’s a pleasure to watch other women who have also struggled in the past now be able to succeed and make big changes, too,” explains Sarah.