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Patrick Yarboro

Patrick Yarboro

Alumni Coordinator for Monroeville

If you would like to get in contact with Patrick, please email [email protected].

Patrick has been working in the Substance use field for 4 years. He began his career with RCA Monroeville in May 2022 as a Case Manager before transferring to Utilization Review. Patrick is enrolled at Clarks Summit University where he is pursuing his master’s in counseling. He joined our Alumni team in February of 2024 and has a passion for working alongside those in early recovery to provide education, encouragement, and a sense of community. Patrick is enthusiastic about 12-Step recovery and providing insight into the process and helping patients develop an understanding of the process as they navigate their own recovery.

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In your opinion, why do you believe an alumni program is so important for those who want to achieve long term recovery?

Early recovery is a difficult period for those who have struggled with substance use. These difficulties are compounded when there is no sense of community. Knowing this, it’s an honor to be part of a dedicated team that stays in contact with our alumni; providing support, resources, and encouraging our members to develop their recovery community. With frequent opportunities to connect with other alumni through meetings, service opportunities, and events, RCA really is a family away from family.

What is your favorite quote, and why?

“If you look for truth, you may find comfort in the end; if you look for comfort you will not get either comfort or truth only soft soap and wishful thinking to begin, and in the end, despair.” – CS Lewis

Most of the quotes I would consider my favorite come from CS Lewis, but this one reminds me to seek truth over comfort. There are far too many things in this world that offer fleeting comfort with a hefty price tag. When I first seek out the truth it may be difficult to stomach, but eventually understanding what is true in this world allows me to live at peace with those around me.

If you could send a message to family, friends and loved ones of those with a substance use disorder, what would it be?

Recovery is possible. Reconciliation is possible. This disease can cause deep wounds, I know. Remain compassionate, but not complacent. Most of all, care for your own well-being.

Peter Gregory

Peter Gregory

Alumni Coordinator for Westminster

Prior to working at RCA, Peter was a teacher, coach and administer at a prep school in Maine. While at the school, Peter helped start a sobriety wing and facilitated groups with adolescents in early recovery.  In 2019, Peter joined RCA as a Peer Engagement Counselor, then moved into additional roles such as Case Manager and 12 Step Instructor prior. Peter now proudly serves RCA’s alumni community as Westminster’s Alumni Coordinator.

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In your opinion, why do you believe an alumni program is so important for those who want to achieve long term recovery?

I believe that connection and fellowship are two key factors in maintaining long term sobriety. The opportunity to work with our alumni and see their transformation is such a valuable tool in connecting their success with others who have been in their shoes.

Why do you choose to work as an Alumni Coordinator at RCA?

I find it so rewarding to be able to work with our patients, not just at the facility but after they have been discharged. This role affords me the opportunity to see and participate in the success of our alumni, then help pass their message of hope on to our patients.

What do you enjoy most about the work that you do?

The greatest joy I have in this role is bearing witness to the connections and achievements of our alumni. I find a great deal of joy in communicating their successes with our team, as it highlights the significant impact of our hard work.

Elijah Maassen

Elijah Maassen

Alumni Coordinator for Bracebridge Hall

If you would like to get in contact with Elijah, please email [email protected].

Elijah Maassen started her personal journey in recovery in 2013 and has been working in treatment since 2019. Her career began with RCA as an RSS and quickly became a 12 Step Recovery Instructor. She enjoys educating others about different perspectives on how to live life on life’s terms through spiritual principles and a program of action. All while learning more effective ways to help. Elijah is a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist and is currently working on becoming a Certified Community Health Worker.  Her passion lies with her family, her personal recovery, skydiving, and ultimately helping others through a lense of unconditional love.

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What is your favorite quote and why?

“We are not supposed to be the light at the end of the tunnel, but rather the lantern that lights the way.”

I will never forget when a previous client shared this quote with me. It serves as a powerful reminder that I gain more knowledge from those I help, which surpasses what I could ever teach them myself.

What do you enjoy the most about the work you do?

Every day, I get to bear witness to living miracles in the form of our alumni – individuals who walk, talk, and breathe with a newfound light and purpose. Watching the spark reignite in their eyes is a beautiful experience.

What do you hope to accomplish as an Alumni Coordinator?

My goal as an Alumni Coordinator is to actively combat the stigma surrounding addiction and shift perceptions that living sober is anything but dull – it’s exciting, vibrant, and full of possibilities!

Chris Rubio

Chris Rubio

Alumni Coordinator for Greenville

If you would like to get in contact with Chris, please email [email protected].

My name is Chris Rubio, and I am a Certified Peer Support Specialist working with Recovery Centers of America as an Alumni Relations Coordinator. I have been working as a peer support since 2015 – in California, and for the last two and a half years here in South Carolina. My experience as a CPSS has been primarily in Homeless Outreach. Connecting folks that are housing challenged battling with substance use and/or mental health challenges. Being in long term recovery from substances myself, it excites me to work in substance use recovery, helping the next person come out of active addiction.

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In your opinion, why do you believe an alumni program is so important for those who want to achieve long term recovery?

I believe that here at Recovery Centers of America, the Alumni Association is one of the most important pieces for people new to or coming back into long term recovery. The disease of addiction wants us isolated. So, the Alumni program offers community around those beginning their recovery journey.

If you could send a message to family, friends, and loved ones of those with substance use disorder, what would it be?

If I could send a message to the family and loved ones of our patients or those who love someone that is still struggling, it would be to continue holding the hope. Where there’s breath, there’s still hope!

What do you hope to accomplish as an Alumni Coordinator?

What I hope to accomplish as an Alumni Coordinator is to be one small part of our patients’ stories and helping them believe that long term recovery is not only possible, but possible for them!

Rahi Patel

Rahi Patel

Alumni Coordinator for Raritan Bay

If you would like to get in contact with Rahi, please email [email protected]

My passion for helping people recover from addiction stems from my own battle with addiction and journey in recovery. I started working in October 2021 and have held several positions during my time – from Lead RSS to Admissions Coordinator.  In May 2023, I happily accepted the position of Alumni Coordinator, joining the Alumni Team at Raritan Bay along with Marguerite. I am working on finishing my bachelor’s in psychology from Kean University with the ultimate goal of becoming a licensed therapist specializing in alcoholism and drug addiction.

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In your opinion, why do you believe an alumni program is so important for those who want to achieve long term recovery?

The Alumni Association at RCA plays a crucial role in the long-term recovery process by offering ongoing support, accountability, education, and a sense of community. It helps individuals build the skills and resilience needed to maintain sobriety and work towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.

What is your favorite quote, and why?

“I knew I was on the right path when I started feeling peace in situations where I would normally feel tension” – Yung Pueblo

This quote captures the essence of personal growth and transformation. It signifies a shift from a state of inner turmoil or tension to one of inner peace and calm. Often, personal growth involves breaking free from old patterns, letting go of negative influences, and making choices that support well-being. When these changes lead to inner peace, it is a clear sign of moving in the right direction.

What do you hope to accomplish as an Alumni Coordinator?

Reaching those that are struggling and showing them the positives and benefits of recovery and the gifts of sobriety. That anyone can without drugs or alcohol for the rest of their lives. As well as playing my part in RCA’s mission and message of saving one million lives from the disease of addiction.

Amber Denton

Amber Denton

Alumni Coordinator for St. Charles

My journey to RCA began as a patient at the Capital Region facility in May of 2020. During my suffering from substance use disorder, I felt hopeless and broken, and once I found recovery, I decided it would be my mission to help others begin to heal and recover. My first dream in life was to work for RCA and through that passion is where I found a purpose. I began working at our St. Charles facility as an RSS and it felt right – I knew I was right where I was supposed to be. Today, life has come full circle for me. As an alumna of RCA, I  now get to give back and be of service to our alumni community.

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Why do you choose to work as an Alumni Coordinator for RCA?

I chose to work as an Alumni Coordinator because I love bringing people together.  It is a calling of mine and I love watching people grow and change as they walk their path of recovery, and I am blessed to be a part of their journey.

What do you enjoy most about the work that you do?

I enjoy watching people get their lives back. I enjoy watching others celebrate their milestones and start to believe in themselves again.

In your opinion, why do you believe an alumni program is so important for those who want to achieve long term recovery?

The Alumni program is a very important part of the journey into recovery because it provides a support system and a sense of belonging.   Having connection with other like-minded individuals is one of the key factors in maintaining long term recovery and that is exactly what Alumni provides.

Marty Dunphy

Marty Dunphy

Alumni Coordinator for Danvers

If you would like to get in contact with Marty, please email [email protected]

On May 5, 1999, I began my own journey of recovery, and it was the best thing I could have ever done for myself. Since then, I have found my purpose and calling in life by working in the field and helping those who struggle with addiction. Throughout my tenure in the treatment space, I have held many positions from Recovery Specialist to Patient Advocate, and more. Today, I have the honor of being in service to our Danvers alumni, serving as their Alumni Coordinator.

I hold a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Massachusetts, but I like to think I learn most from the people I have had the privilege of helping to guide through this incredible journey of recovery.

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What do you hope to accomplish as an Alumni Coordinator?

I hope to provide a safe haven – a voice at the other end of the phone with a sincere desire to help and ability to suggest solution.

If you could send a message to family, friends and loved ones of those with a substance use disorder, what would it be?

It is never too late! We learn from our experience, and the journey is individual and different for everyone. Don’t give up hope – with love and support recovery works!

In your opinion, why do you believe an alumni program is so important for those who want to achieve long-term recovery?

I truly believe that continued care and support is essential to long term recovery. When our patients leave the treatment environment and enter back into their daily lives, the recovery piece is still so new. Having a support system already in place and knowing where to turn when things get tough, is a tremendous weight lifted. I feel that an alumni program is a wonderful guidance system, supporting our alums while they spread their wings and experience how to live a life of recovery.

Jane Termyna

Jane Termyna

Alumni Coordinator for Monroeville

If you would like to get in contact with Jane please email [email protected]

I started my work in the recovery field in 2019. In 2022, I happily accepted the position of Alumni Coordinator at Monroeville where I have the unique opportunity to see our patients flourish once they leave treatment and enter into their new, sober lives. I come to the RCA with eclectic experience in life coaching and healthcare. I am enthusiastic about helping those who are looking for help and guidance while obtaining healthy coping skills. On a personal note, golf, music, and gardening help keep me grounded and happy!

 

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In your opinion, why do you believe an alumni program is so important for those who want to achieve long term recovery?

The alumni program is vital to the first step in maintaining recovery. When you are surrounded with support from those who have walked alongside you in your journey at RCA, there is a sense of camaraderie and understanding that you can’t get anywhere else.

Why do you choose to work as an Alumni Coordinator for RCA?

I chose to work as an Alumni Coordinator because I know the importance of feeling seen and cared for. My role is to continue to let our patients know they are valued as people, and we continue to support them.

What do you enjoy most about the work that you do?

Being able to witness the gratitude and joy that alumni and their families experience when they get their lives back on track is truly what I enjoy most about my role. When I see the healing that occurs, I become very emotional in the best way.

Sam Scheib

Sam Scheib

Alumni Coordinator at Indianapolis

If you would like to get in touch with Sam, please email [email protected].

I’ve always felt in my heart that my purpose in life was to help other people but I had no idea that life would take a turn in the direction that it did – that my substance abuse disorder would become the driving force and helping others would become the last thing on my mind. The irony is, that when I finally received help, the passion to help others returned. This path has led me to RCA and I’m extremely grateful to have the opportunity to work with patients; to see their hope begin to rise. I also get to then be a part of their continued journey once they leave; to see the light turn and watch them experience joy.

Getting connected was vital for me early on as well as in long-term recovery. Having supportive people to help guide me along this path and show me how to live because if I knew how to live, I would’ve done it a long time ago. As an Alumni Coordinator, I am privileged to do the same thing with our alumni that was done for me, and stress the importance of building a fellowship to not only enjoy the great times, but to have a group to lean into when the trials of life hit.

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What is your favorite quote and why?

“This too shall pass”. To be honest, I hated this quote, but today this is the quote I choose to think of to stay present in the day, appreciate the circumstances of each day and be grateful for what it is. You’re having a great day…this too shall pass. You’re having a bad day…this too shall pass. This quote allows me to release anxiety and gives me proof that no matter what is going on, I have the faith I’ll get through it because…this too shall pass.

What are the major driving forces in your life?
My driving force in life is to become famous in my own home. What this means is that I put in the work each day to be a good father and a good husband: to lead by example, make my words match my actions, and to see what I can offer to stream of life.

If you could send a message to family, friends, and loved ones of those with substance use disorder, what would it be?

If I could say one thing to the families of those who have a loved one struggling with the disease of addiction is that there is hope – that people do recover from a hopeless state of mind and body, and they are able to recreate their lives.

Henry Love

Henry Love

Alumni Coordinator at St. Charles

If you would like to get in contact with Henry, please email [email protected].

Henry’s recovery journey began in 2013. As he walked the path of recovery, he found his passion – helping others recover. He then entered Southern New Hampshire University where he earned my bachelor’s degree in human services with a concentration in substance abuse. After receiving his degree, Henry found Recovery Centers of America, where he was brought on initially as an RSS. After some time, he accepted the position of Alumni Coordinator, following his passion in helping our alumni maintain a new, sober life.

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In your opinion, why do you believe an alumni program is so important for those who want to achieve long term recovery?

Based on my own experience no one is an island, and no one can do life alone and remain sane, an alumni program is a program of connection, connection to likeminded people who are trying to achieve the same goal, the goal of long-term sobriety, and an alumni program offers the assistance the fellowship and support to reach such a goal.

Why do you choose to work as an Alumni Coordinator for RCA?

I know that recovery is possible, I believe in the message of RCA – to save a million lives. The Alumni Association is a vessel to do just that and I can be an asset to bring the message of saving lives by being a part of the work that is required.

What do you enjoy the most about the work that you do?

The transformation, crossing over from addiction to recovery can be a lonely journey even when done with others at your side, but once you make it to the other side, the light bulb of transition comes on and you get to witness the change in someone’s life, and that is why I do it.

Julie Toy

Julie Toy

Alumni Coordinator for Devon

Julie’s journey with RCA started in October 2018 when she came through our doors as a patient. She describes her life as being turned completely around through the treatment she received at RCA and when she was introduced to the Alumni Association. She immediately got involved and in service as an alumni volunteer. In November 2019, she took a leap of faith leaving behind an accounting career and began her journey as an employee working as a Patient Specialist in the Mission Center. Quickly, she advanced to Associate Treatment Advisor, then to Treatment Advisor. When the opportunity came to onboard with the Alumni Team, she says for her, “it was a no brainer because this is where my passion has been all along.” As a person in recovery, Julie’s hunger to help others is unmeasurable and she will gladly fight alongside anyone struggling and their loved ones to help them get to the freedom she was so freely given.

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In your opinion, why do you believe an alumni program is so important for those who want to achieve long term recovery?

I believe in the mission of RCA and the alumni is another tool in the toolbelt. It allows people to come back to where it all started and gives a sense of another place to call home. The Alumni, not only offers a ton of meetings, but it continues to provide a safe community while teaching people how to have fun in recovery and the freedom that recovery brings. It’s a place where we can make this community our own. To have a sense of belonging and to feel apart of.

What is your favorite quote, and why?

“Shining your light on the road ahead can help bring others through the darkness.” I love this quote. I myself have been in darkness before and I thank God every day for putting people in my life who shined their light to guide me out of that darkness and now I do the same for others.

Why do you choose to work as an Alumni Coordinator for RCA?

I choose to work in this role because it is where my passion is. I have had the privilege of being an active volunteer of the Alumni Association for a few years, and I got to see firsthand the positive impact it has on people walking back into their lives after much suffering and having to relearn life all over again. This is a crucial part in recovery, teaching others about sober fun in recovery and exposing them to things they either forgot they once enjoyed or had no idea they even enjoyed certain activities. It is also a beautiful and safe community like I have never seen before.

What do you enjoy most about the work that you do? Working with others and seeing the light turn on inside them. There is no greater gift then to see life return to their eyes. Seeing someone laugh again, to see them free, to see them love and be loved. Watching them get rooted in their recovery and know they are worth and deserving of it.

Bob Gibson

Bob Gibson

Alumni Coordinator at Devon

Bob has worked for RCA Devon since June of 2019, initially starting as an RSS. He then became a Lead RSS and eventually moved into the Recovery Instructor position before becoming an Alumni Coordinator. Bob has a strong passion for 12-step recovery and helping patients to navigate their own path and have their own recovery experience.

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What is your favorite quote, and why?

“If you want something you have never had before, you have to do something you have never done before.”  I like this quote because applies so well to not just my own life, but I can’t think of too many situations that it doesn’t apply to.

What are the major driving forces in your life?

Honestly, nothing brings me serenity like being of use to other people. That’s what I strive for in my professional and personal life. I was very selfish most of my life, but today I have the opportunity and the knowledge to act as the exact opposite and help others.

If you could send a message to family, friends and loved ones of those with a substance use disorder, what would it be?

Do not forget about your own mental health and well-being while trying to work through your loved one’s addiction. There are many resources available to support the family and loved ones of people suffering from addiction. Use them. You are not alone.

Why do you choose to work as an Alumni Coordinator for RCA?

In all my roles at RCA, except for this one, my relationships with our patients ended when they left treatment. In this role I am afforded the opportunity to be a resource to our alumni for the long haul.

What do you enjoy most about the work that you do?

Being able to carry a message of hope to people that need it is an honor and a privilege and brings me a great amount of joy. There is nothing more exciting than getting to watch people become the best versions of themselves.

Jill DeMaio

Jill DeMaio

Alumni Operations Coordinator

If you would like to get in contact with Jill, please email [email protected].

Jill DeMaio graduated from Penn State University in 2019, and immediately entered the non-profit sector as a Special Events Associate for the Colorectal Cancer Alliance. There, she was able to develop skills in volunteer management, fundraising, and ultimately developed a passion for helping those in need. In March of 2022, Jill joined the Alumni Team at RCA as the Alumni Operations Coordinator based out of our corporate office in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania.

Jill currently holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology with Minors in English and Political Science. She relocated to Philadelphia from Washington, DC in 2021 to be closer to family. She has a passion for fitness & exercise, binge-watching TV shows, listening to music, and being a positive force everywhere she goes.

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In your opinion, why do you believe an alumni program is so important for those who want to achieve long-term recovery?

An alumni program like RCA’s is so important because recovery continues after discharge. We want to ensure all of those who have gone through treatment have a sense of comfort, feel they’re not alone, and ultimately have the resources to thrive in their day-to-day lives. There is a community here, ready to welcome you in with open arms and remind you that you are not alone in this. The Alumni Program at RCA ensures everyone has a seat at the table, no matter what stage of recovery they might be in.

What is your favorite quote, and why?

My favorite quote is “How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.” Everyone can make a positive impact, whether it be big or small. Leading with kindness & compassion is a great place to start.

What are the major driving forces in your life?

I am driven by a supportive family, amazing and loyal friends, a girlfriend that changed my life, and my two cats, Peach & Poppy. These pieces of my puzzle get me out of bed every day and remind me to work hard, stay passionate, and make me want to have a strong impact on the world.

If you could send a message to family, friends and loved ones of those with a substance use disorder, what would it be?

If I could share one message to family, friends and loved ones of someone struggling with substance use disorder, I’d remind them that they are NOT alone in this. This can be an isolating experience, so please know that you have RCA in your corner. We are here to listen, support, provide resources, and help you find comfort in this difficult time.

What do you enjoy most about the work that you do?

The fact that I wake up every day and come to a place that is both changing & saving lives is something I do not take lightly. Above everything else, RCA cares about the people who walk through their doors. To be a part of an organization that keeps the work focused on the well-being of patients, families, loved ones, and more is my favorite thing about the work I do!

Loreal Hamilton

Loreal Hamilton

Senior Alumni Coordinator for Capital Region

If you would like to get in contact with Loreal regarding alumni volunteer opportunities, events, or meetings for RCA at Capital Region, please email [email protected].

Loreal is an Air Force Veteran. She is passionate about helping others and inspiring them in their recovery journey. She has an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice and a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Health. Most recently, she worked for Blinded Veteran’s Association assisting Veteran’s in accessing services of all kinds.

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What do you hope to accomplish as an Alumni Coordinator?

As Capital Region’s Alumni Relations Coordinator, my goal is to establish an active Alumni community that provides a safe, welcoming, and supportive space to experience recovery and all it can offer. It is my hope that the Capital Regional Alumni will help break down the stigma associated with seeking treatment and pursuing recovery.

In your opinion, why do you believe an alumni program is so important for those who want to achieve long-term recovery?

The Alumni Association exists to help alumni achieve long-term recovery by providing a network of engaged individuals who encourage one another and ensure no one feels they have to do the work of sobriety on their own. I am also an advocate for helping families understand the disease of addiction and the systemic issues it causes within the family unit.

What do you enjoy most about the work that you do?

This position allows me to meet people at all aspects of their recovery journey. Whether they are on Step One, Step Twelve, or living in active daily recovery it is my goal to meet them where they are to encourage and give back to others.

What is your favorite quote, and why?

My favorite quote – “We Delight In The Beauty Of The Butterfly, But Rarely Admit The Changes It Has Gone Through To Achieve That Beauty”. – Maya Angelou

This quote makes me remember to take a big-picture view when looking at individuals and develop compassion at every stage in their journey.

Morgan Werner

Morgan Werner

Senior Manager, Alumni Operations

If you would like to get in contact with Morgan, please email [email protected].

Morgan Werner began her career in the Mental Health field, serving as a Mental Health Counselor for over 5 years at a psychiatric hospital for children. She then went on to find a true passion in helping those with the disease of addiction when she went to work for a local treatment center as the Regional Alumni Coordinator. In June of 2020, Morgan joined the Alumni Team as the Alumni Operations Coordinator. Now, Morgan happily serves Recovery Centers of America as the Alumni Operations Manager.

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In your opinion, why do you believe an alumni program is so important for those who want to achieve long-term recovery?

Having an alumni program is so vital because it is an essential part of our mission to save one million lives from the disease of addiction and offers continuous support to those who truly want to find a new way of living. Where some treatment centers say goodbye to patients upon discharge, the Alumni Team and our growing community of alumni say ‘welcome, we’re happy you’re here.’ It is a safe, nurturing environment where alumni can connect with one another, share new experiences, and get in service which are three key pieces when we talk about success in recovery.

What are the major driving forces in your life?

What gets me out of bed is my daughter. Being a parent is one of the single greatest honors I believe we can have in life, and I am so grateful that my higher power gave me that opportunity. I wake up every day with the intention to show my daughter how far hard work and a kind heart will get her.

If you could send a message to family, friends and loved ones of those with a substance use disorder, what would it be?

If I could share one message with loved ones who have someone they care about battling substance use disorder, it would be to keep hope alive and never give up. When we continue to have hope for our loved ones, we leave the door open for them to surrender and accept the help they so willingly deserve.

Jaye Rodenbush

Jaye Rodenbush

Director of Alumni Engagement

Jaye Rodenbush serves as RCA’s Director of Alumni Engagement. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Music and Corporate Communication, a Master’s in Higher Education and a second Master’s in Mental Health Counseling. Jaye is a licensed therapist, writer, speaker, and teacher who enjoys working to help others develop their full potential.

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In your opinion, why do you believe an alumni program is so important for those who want to achieve long-term recovery?

Alumni programs are important because they can help facilitate long-term recovery by providing opportunities for fellowship, fun activities, and service work that promote community and support. The Alumni Association at Recovery Centers of America is especially important for our alumni not only because we allow members to meet new people and have new experiences, but because we start engaging our patients with aftercare the moment they enter treatment.

What is your favorite quote, and why?

“The heights by great men reached and kept were not attained by sudden flight, but they, while their companions slept, were toiling upward in the night.” -Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. My father used this quote a lot and it always spoke to me that good things, things worth doing don’t happen overnight – they take patience and perseverance and may separate you a bit from the crowd.

What are the major driving forces in your life?

I am driven by faith and family. I want to be a part of something bigger than myself. I believe together we can accomplish so much more than we can alone.

Marguerite Warner

Marguerite Warner

Senior Alumni Coordinator at Raritan Bay

If you would like to get in contact with Marguerite regarding alumni volunteer opportunities, events, or meetings for RCA at Raritan Bay, please email [email protected].

Marguerite has worked in treatment for 9 years and joined the RCA team at Raritan Bay in May of 2019 as 12 Step Recovery Instructor. Educating patients on how to effectively work a program of action, treating the Mind, Body and Spirit. Marguerite’s passion for recovery and understanding of the importance in developing a strong sober network is what led her to the position of Regional Alumni Coordinator where she can support patients and their families throughout their journey to achieving long-term recovery.

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What do you hope to accomplish as an Alumni Coordinator?

As Raritan Bay’s Alumni Relations Coordinator, my hope is to guide our patients, alumni, and their families through the process of building a strong support network. While recovery does require work and commitment, we cannot lose site of the joy that comes with embracing a new way of life and having fun along the way.

In your opinion, why do you believe an alumni program is so important for those who want to achieve long-term recovery?

We can do together what we cannot do alone. Addiction breeds isolation, connecting with others focused on their recovery produces Hope and provides the needed strength along the way. Getting involved with Alumni activities and volunteer opportunities builds a strong foundation in recovery.

What do you enjoy most about the work that you do?

Having the opportunity every day to make a difference in another person’s life is what I enjoy the most about my work. Planting the seed of hope and watching it begin to grow is the greatest gift.

What is your favorite quote, and why?

My favorite quote is – “Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.” Carl Jung

This quote reminds me to look within each day and to live with an awakened Spirit.

Bob Whedbee

Bob Whedbee

Senior Alumni Coordinator for Lighthouse

If you would like to get in contact with Bob regarding alumni volunteer opportunities, events, or meetings for RCA at Lighthouse, please email [email protected].

Prior to his work at RCA, Bob served three years in the US Army, and upon discharge, he started his own successful business in construction which he operated for over 20 years. Bob’s passion for helping others along their journey in recovery began when he found himself battling the disease of addiction. In 2016, Bob got sober with the help of RCA, and once he became an alumnus, he happily served as the first chair for the Alumni Association at Lighthouse. In 2017, Bob accepted an offer to work as a driver for RCA and from there he held many positions within RCA including RSS, Clinical Intern, and Recovery Instructor. Now, Bob has truly come full circle in his journey to join the Alumni Team and assist in building the Alumni Program at Lighthouse where he serves as the Alumni Coordinator.

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What do you hope to accomplish as an Alumni Coordinator?

I hope to create an atmosphere that allows RCA to be integrated into the community as a whole and the recovery community specifically. I also feel that being Alumni Coordinator puts me in a position where I can help educate the community about addiction, reduce the stigma, and be a part of the solution. This is very exciting to me seeing firsthand what a little guidance and hope can do for someone.

In your opinion, why do you believe an alumni program is so important for those who want to achieve long-term recovery?

I believe lack of connection is one of the main driving forces of addiction. When a patient comes to RCA we try to help them rebuild those relationships that were lost while in active addiction. I feel strongly that having a strong Alumni community will help to further this process. With the many activities and volunteer opportunities, the Alumni Association offers, the patient will be able to reintegrate back into the community and therefore have a much better chance at long-term recovery.

What do you enjoy most about the work that you do?

I love working with people, getting to know them and be part of the process that helps them achieve long-term recovery. The joy I get when I can see in people’s eyes that they have begun to have hope again is beautiful to behold. So many have lost hope and what I have realized is a lack of hope is tied to not knowing of anyway to solve their problem. I believe recovery is a process of rediscovery. If I can be just a small part of that process that would be most rewarding to me.

What are the major driving forces in your life?

My wife, children and grandchildren are the reason I get out of bed each day. They are what keeps me motivated to help others. I am very blessed to be given another chance and I do not take lightly. Being given the opportunity to help give what has been given to me is such an amazing thing.

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Treatment Advisor
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