In response to a recent article featuring Working Fields, one of our program alumni wrote a letter to the editor of Seven Days. Check out his thoughts here:

This Program Works

I was very appreciative to see the article about Working Fields ["Reaching Out," May 25]. A little over three years ago I had just got out of rehab and was trying to put my life back together. I was referred to Working Fields through Turning Point. I was offered a job at a diesel repair shop in Williston. I had no experience as a diesel mechanic but had been a welder for 20 years before alcoholism destroyed my life. The shop manager gave me a chance, and I worked there for two years until the shop closed due to COVID-19 in 2021. The manager also gave me a second chance when I relapsed after working there for two months and was a no-call/no-show for two days. He was sympathetic and understanding of my struggle to get sober and took me back, no questions asked. The company also gave me the flexibility in my schedule to attend IOP classes and meet with my counselor and recovery coach.

If it wasn't for Working Fields, I really don't know how I would have gotten a job and a second chance to get my life together and reunite with my family. I have been in recovery for just over three years and have been able to take classes at CCV. I am now working for the Howard Center, which I have wanted to do for a long time, and I'm able help others as I have been helped.

WINOOSKI