Meghan’s journey began with a decision to enter inpatient treatment for drug and alcohol addiction; a pivotal first step on her path to recovery. After completing treatment, she entered the Esther House, a transitional living program, where she continued to heal and grow. With support from her community through the 100 Families Initiative, Meghan was empowered to build a new foundation for her life.
The 100 Families Initiative uses collaboration and existing resources in a community to help families move from crisis to stability and onto career.
Meghan was accepted into, and later graduated from, WATEP, the Western Arkansas Transitional Employment Program, where she gained life skills, professional development, and confidence. With a clear goal in mind, she applied for and received a scholarship to attend the American Welding Laboratories. Through this opportunity, she earned industry-recognized training that prepared her for her new job at Meek Mirrors. With stable employment, Meghan was able to find safe, affordable housing in Van Buren.
Meghan continues to maintain her sobriety and is living proof of what’s possible when commitment meets opportunity. Meghan’s journey is more than a success story, it’s an inspiration- a reminder that with the right support, true transformation is always within reach.
Smart Justice is a magazine, podcast, and continuing news coverage from the nonprofit Restore Hope and covers the pursuit of better outcomes on justice system-related issues, such as child welfare, incarceration, and juvenile justice. Our coverage is solutions-oriented, focusing on the innovative ways in which communities are solving issues and the lessons that have been learned as a result of successes and challenges.
The podcast is available on all major podcasting platforms.
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