My experience at Milestone House played a huge role in my recovery and in helping me build the life that I have today. From the moment I arrived, everyone made me feel at home and showed me that I don't have to go through this process alone. I was surrounded by people who understand what I was going through because they were walking in the same path. They worked with me financially and even gave me a scholarship, which is why fundraisers like this one are so important, because all the funds raised will go to scholarships at Milestone

The sense of community taught me that recovery isn't something I have to do alone. We supported each other, held each other accountable, went to meetings together, and learned how to enjoy life while staying clean. Being around other people in recovery gave me a sense of belonging and showed me the importance of a having a strong support system.

Milestone also introduced me to Narcotics Annoyonmous, which became another community that completely changed my life. I started by simply attending meeting while at Milestone every night I was there, but overtime I became more involved. Milestone opened those doors for me. Today, I am fully involved in NA service at both at my home group and Area level. Being able to give back and help others has become an important part of my recovery. Those who have helped me at Milestone and gave back to me are the reason I am involved in service because they showed me that it works if you help others.

Milestone taught me much than how to stay clean. The community helped teach me how to live again, be accountable and become part of something that is bigger than myself. The people I have met there became a huge part of my life, the lessons learner and the connections I have made at Milestone will continue to be a big part of my life.

Today I am proud member of the Milestone alumni association, going back to school to get my master's degree in social work to help others, I'm engaged, and get to be a great father to my son again. Life is great and its because Milestone gave me that foundation in my recovery.

I'm raising funds for The Milestone House in Dover, New Jersey, a nonprofit recovery housing organization that provides structured, peer-supported housing for individuals in early recovery from substance use disorders.