03/31/2025
Johnny Clark on the ARRC
I remember when we cut the ribbon, and it hurts to see something that once thrived come to an end. Congratulations, Amanda! Your determination and resilience as a nursing counselor, business owner, and sober house operator continue to inspire. Just remember not to overdo it.
The original Augusta Recovery Reentry Center was a beautiful community project that made a difference, but sustaining that kind of impact is challenging. I recall giving countless rides to those moving into sober houses and referring them to agencies like Angles Behavioral Health and Lifeline just to name a few. Such efforts require constant oversight, especially when it comes to supporting those in recovery.
There were ups and downs, tough times, and great times, but what matters most are the people we served and the comfort they felt when they walked through the door. With every individual comes different personalities and challenges, but I’m grateful to my colleagues—Bruce, Courtney, Gary-Allen, Brandon, Kelly, and Marshal—who helped open those doors and create a supportive environment.
Many found sobriety and built brighter futures, while others faced struggles. The memories of that place are cherished, despite the controversies. I thank everyone who contributed to the center’s mission. I wish it could have continued to thrive and be a lasting staple in our community, but seasons change.
I hope to see unity within the recovery community, not just in Augusta but throughout Maine. Recovery should not be a competition for power or money. We must combat the stigma and gossip that divides us. We all make mistakes, and none of us are perfect. Our goal should be to strive for the best, support each other, and fill our own cups while helping those who choose to recover.
Let’s work together, recognizing that every one of us has strengths to offer. We don’t have to work with those we believe could cause harm, but we can extend our hands to help rather than judge.
I know there were many others who played a major role in the creation of the Augusta Recovery Reentry Center—those who were at YPR in Leslie's backyard and the community that came together to help build it. There are so many that I could sit here all day writing names. This message is already long, so I’ll stop here, but please know I haven’t forgotten you. I’ve seen your faces and worked side by side with you, and I appreciate you.
I’m sorry for any differences that may have left a bad taste in your mouth. As I said before, none of us are perfect, and many of us made mistakes along the way, from upper management all the way down. There are newer places opening soon, and other opportunities for recovery or just to hang out. As one domino falls, another may rise, so remember there’s someone else stacking their dominoes. Give them a hand—don’t try to sabotage. Support, help, and build.
Just my two cents for what they’re worth. I love you all, and I will miss you, but I'll see many of you around. I hope none of you are done with this work because you all offer something needed, whether you realize it or not. But remember, we must work on ourselves too. We all do—that's how we keep it going.
