07/13/2026
ANOTHER HOPE SHOT
Yesterday wasn't just a cookout—it was a glimpse of what recovery is supposed to look like.
A little over three years ago, Reggie walked through our doors unsure of himself and unsure if recovery was even possible. Yesterday, we celebrated him as he begins a new chapter, moving forward to spend more time with his family. Watching that transformation is something I'll never take for granted.
Our yard was filled with people from Hope 2 Freedom Recovery Homes , alumni, members of the recovery community, friends, families, and the 12-step community. There was food, fellowship, laughter, children running around, babies smiling, and one of our residents sharing his talent on the drums—a positive outlet he uses to care for his mental health. It was a day filled with hope.
We also experienced a moment that reminded us that trauma is real. Many of us carry scars that can't be seen, and sometimes those scars show up when we least expect them. It was a reminder that healing takes time and that everyone deserves patience, compassion, and understanding.
As I looked around, I saw people who once believed they would never recover. People who were homeless, incarcerated, hopeless, and ready to give up. Today they're working in the field, rebuilding relationships, helping others, sponsoring newcomers, raising families, and living lives they never thought were possible.
On the hard days, when I question whether any of this is making a difference, I think about moments like yesterday.
Years ago, someone told me, "If you help one person a year in this field, you're doing pretty good."
Yesterday, I looked around that yard and realized we weren't looking at one life changed—we were looking at hundreds of lives connected together because someone was given a chance. Every resident, every alumnus, every family member, every child playing in that yard is part of a ripple effect that started when someone chose recovery.
That's why we do this.
Congratulations, Reg Ploof . Thank you for everything you've given to Hope 2 Freedom. You will always be family, and we can't wait to see what God has planned for your next chapter.
Recovery works. Hope is real. And yesterday reminded all of us that miracles still happen.
