Representatives from Cushing Valley Hope spoke to Rotarians Thursday about their impact on the community.

Brad Collins, head of community relations for Valley Hope, emphasized the real need for the proposed expansion as well as the impact Valley Hope has not only on the lives of those entering its doors, but the community as a whole.

In spite of that impact, Collins said there are still many who aren’t aware.  “It’s not unusual,” he said, “to run into people in this town who don’t even know Valley Hope exists.”

But it does exist.  According to statistics brought to light by Collins, the economic impact alone is worth noting.  Patients and family members, employees, healthcare providers, etc. bring a total of approximately $2.2 million into the community each year.

And now they are asking for the community’s help.

Cushing Valley Hope is wanting to expand their facility to accommodate more patients.  Top of the list – more beds for detoxing.

Currently, Cushing Valley Hope is only able to accommodate 4 males and 2 females at one time.  “We don’t want to turn people away,” Collins said.  “The window of opportunity is sometimes small for those finally coming to the point of wanting help.  That is why the expansion is so important.”

The expansion would increase the number of detox beds to 6 each.  “We have seen an increase in women over the years,” Collins said.

One such woman is Melissa Denoya.  Denoya courageously took the podium to share her success story with the Rotarians.

“I was a scared and broken woman,” she said.  “I had the desire, but I had no idea how to do it.  I was trying it on my own…  I’m so grateful to my step-dad, he wrote the check and today, I’m 11 years sober.”

Denoya is not only sober, but she recently earned her masters degree and plans on helping others like herself.

“There were staff members at Valley Hope that knew exactly what I was going through,” Donoya said.  “Because many of them are recovering alcoholics or addicts themselves, they understood the feeling of shame… I can never thank my step-dad enough for writing that check that day.”

After thanking the group, Denoya took her seat and Collins returned to the podium.  “I, too, am a recovering alcoholic/drug addict,” he said quietly.  “That’s why I do what I do.”

To make a donation for the Valley Hope expansion, please call 918-225-1736.  For more information on Valley Hope go to: https://valleyhope.org/

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