Odyssey House recently celebrated the achievements of men and women who have completed their recovery programs, marking a powerful milestone in their journeys toward stability, independence, and self-discovery. Families, staff, and peers gathered to honor the graduates’ hard work, perseverance, and the hope that fuels lasting recovery.
Speakers from across Odyssey House’s programs shared inspiring reflections on their paths. Lawanda Williams, a graduate of the Women & Children’s program, spoke about finding strength through connection and self-worth. “I knew I had to change. It was scary at first, but then a calm feeling came over me after just a few days of being at Odyssey House. I felt that finally someone hears me, someone understands me, and I’m not alone. I’ve learned a lot from being here. But the most important lesson was, do this for yourself first.”
From the ElderCare program, Warren Danner reminded fellow graduates that recovery is a lifelong process of growth. “Recovery is not just about leaving something behind. It’s about building something new. It’s about discovering who we truly are when we remove the barriers that once held us back,” he said. “Today is not the end of your journey. It is a powerful new beginning.”
Addressing the graduates, Jeremy King, Senior Director of Residential Services, offered words of encouragement: “As you move forward, remember this—you are not alone. You have a network of people who believe in you. You have the strength within you to face whatever comes next, and you have already overcome so much. Never forget that. Today, we celebrate your victory, we stand with you in your journey, and we look forward to the incredible future you are creating.”
The ceremony celebrated more than completion—it celebrated transformation. Each graduate’s story reflects Odyssey House’s mission to provide the tools, support, and community needed to build a life of purpose, hope, and progress.
This article is from our Fall 2025 edition of Odyssey House News. Click here to check out the entire issue.