November 8th Fundraiser

Testimonials

After years of fear, worry, guilt, anger, dread, distance, dashed hopes and something very close to despair, my loved one told me in October that he wanted to go to RCOSA. He had heard good things about it from people who would know. And he really neeeded –and more importantly– wanted to make a new start. I had never heard of RCOSA, and immediately went on-line to find out more about it. As I read the testimonials, I frankly thought it sounded too good to be true. Mostly, I think I was just afraid to hope again. Well, I’m here to tell you today, it IS good and it IS true. RCOSA has helped in a way that no other program did (and through the years, I’ve become familiar with many!). While there is a long road ahead, my brother’s step toward RCOSA has been a turning point. Not only for him but for me and the rest of our family. RCOSA’s combination of the 12 steps with tough love, compassion, common sense and kindness helps bring about a healing process for those who are brave, open and committed enough to embrace it. I’m very impressed by all the people I’ve met at RCOSA. I’m thankful to the residents who are helping their new “brothers” recover. And, there is simply no way to fully express the admiration I have for Steve — who brings them all together and keeps the whole thing going. His sense of mission and zest for living are inspiring. All of us who have loved ones who suffer from this disease know how very painful it can be for all concerned. Steve and the people RCOSA have begun to show me how rewarding recovery can be. It’s one day at a time and today is a good day. I’m very grateful to all the people of RCOSA for their support. All the best to all of you today, in the new year and always… Peace! –Sister of an RCOSA Resident How do you thank someone for saving your life? I know it sounds melodramatic, or extreme…But the truth is, that RCOSA saved my life. I recently celebrated a year of sobriety thanks to my family here, and will mark a year in residence in early December. I am a professional person with a pretty amazing background. I consider myself smart, well educated and successful. However I fell victim to the disease of Alcoholism. I am no different than any other person with an addiction, I need help, I can’t do this on my own. I am living proof of the miracle that is RCOSA! I want to tell you of the absolute joy my life has become since my affiliation with RCOSA. I’m a regular guy… with a regular problem… who was saved by an extraordinary man and his vision that is RCOSA! We have a true family setting, where we watch out for each other, hold each other accountable, and recognize each others accomplishments. We have privacy without lonliness, responsibilty without oppression, and concern without annoyance. The life skills I have gained here are too numerous to count and an invaluable set of tools I will need to continue this amazing sober life! I am certain the friendships I have made at RCOSA will endure along with my sobriety…for a lifetime! You have many options when choosing a sober living community, however none can hold a candle to RCOSA. Because only RCOSA has Steve Greenberg as it’s Director! This past Thanksgiving I gave thanks for him and the true gift that is RCOSA! Thank you for reading my rambling testimonial, and I hope this can help you, at what may be a difficult time. Sincerely, John T
— John T

I only have positive things to say about my experience at Step Ahead. I have a deeply rooted belief today that Step Ahead has played a major role in the changes that have taken place in my life. Not only did Step Ahead provide a healthy living environment for everyone who lived there, but there existed a spirit of love and comaraderie within the community that I had not previously encountered. When I arrived at Step Ahead I had some doubt about my ability to live a sober and productive life. My past was full of lost opportunities, broken promises, and mistakes. The mentoring and spiritual guidance of Steve Greenberg and other members of the Step Ahead community helped me to believe in myself and my ability to achieve my goals. Step Ahead also provided the opportunity to attend A.A. meetings in the building on a regular basis. Since regular attendance at A.A. meetings is an integral part of living a clean and sober life, this aspect of living at Step Ahead is invaluable. There were many parties, barbeques, etc. at Step Ahead that helped me to learn how to socialize and have fun again. I am extremely grateful for Step Ahead and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking to live a sober and happy life. Sincerely, Johnny B.
— Johnny B.

Steve, This morning as I read this reflection (for the second time) I was grateful for the comfort that it gave me. I am soldiering on in recent weeks/months. In all of it God is nudging me “over the dunes. I’m finding the strength I need…. As I prayed I thought of all of you (and others) and how we all are soldiering on…. We do this together. a)lean economic times that could create doubt b)health and deadly diseases that threaten to rob and kill c)broken hearts and relationships that bring us to our knees d)Dual diagnosis that require effort and diligence Tsunamis, earthquakes,Haiti, Japan… Indeed, the planet soldiers. Today I’m mindful that being a victim isn’t an option. It comforts me to know – and experience – that as I try to be my best I do not soldier alone. God has given me incredible pace partners. We run this road of happy destiny together. March 22 marks two years for this Alcoholic. My favorite word in the AA literature is still “we.” As God gives me two years this morning, I’m so grateful that we travel together. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for being a we with me. I love the way you reference “the we” in meetings. It helps me so much. Love you, Man May God be praised! All my very best, C
— C