"Breaking the Cycle: 24 Hour Club's Unique Approach To Helping Homeless Addicts Recover "ft-Marsha Williamson & Tim Grigsby

OurCalling - Our podcast about homelessness

In this episode, Pastor Wayne Walker, CEO of OurCalling, interviews Marsha and Tim about the transformative impact of the Dallas 24 Hour Club. Initially a consulting role that eventually led Marsha to step up as CEO, she discusses the operational challenges and improvements, including the significant facility upgrade in 2018 that bolstered program execution. Tim elucidates on the club’s role as a transitional sober living environment that not only provides a residence but also integrates extensive community services and support for long-term sobriety and stability. The episode also highlights the strategic frameworks of phased recovery, work readiness, and long-term housing that collectively contribute to reducing relapse and homelessness among recovering addicts.

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- **Marsha's Background and Introduction to the 24 Hour Club** (00:54-02:09): Marsha, who has personally faced addiction within her family, discusses her initial engagement with the Dallas 24 Hour Club through her nonprofit consulting work, highlighting her role in operational stabilization and facility improvement.

- **Transition to Leadership and Facility Challenges** (02:45-03:20): Marsha explains her progression from consultant to CEO at the Dallas 24 Hour Club, facing early challenges until the opening of a new facility in 2018 that helped improve the execution of their programs.

- **Explanation of the 24 Hour Club** (04:23-04:52): Tim describes the club as a transitional, sober living environment for homeless addicts, emphasizing the community aspect and public access which includes various support services and programs aimed at long-term sobriety and stability.

- **Unique Aspects and Community Involvement** (05:16-06:09): The club hosts 39 weekly 12-step meetings accessible to the public, providing a crucial community service and support network for both residents and non-residents seeking help.

- **Marsha's Role Post-Retirement** (03:23-04:06): Post-retirement, Marsha continues to contribute as a consultant focusing on fundraising and board relations, highlighting the importance of her expertise in maintaining and expanding community relationships.

- **Residential Process and Criteria** (16:54-17:26): Residents must meet specific criteria including substance abuse issues and a background check clear of severe crimes. The club provides extensive support including accommodation, food, clothes, and healthcare primarily through donations and partnerships.

- **Phased Recovery Program** (18:25-19:49): The club's recovery program is structured in phases that offer increasing freedom and responsibility, including mandatory meetings, chores, and external mentorship to guide residents through recovery.

- **Work Readiness and Employment Support** (22:17-23:39): Partnerships with educational institutions and local businesses facilitate vocational training and employment opportunities, focusing on sustainable recovery through financial independence and skill development.

- **Impact Measurement and Program Evaluation** (26:26-28:05): Systematic data collection initiated in recent years has informed program adjustments leading to significantly decreased recidivism rates, underscoring the importance of continuous improvement and adaptation of services.

- **Long-term Housing and Life Skills Development** (30:30-31:20): By offering extended sober living options and practical life skills training, the club aims to ensure that residents are prepared for independent living, reducing the risk of relapse into homelessness or addiction.

- **Community and Safety Emphasis** (33:15-35:40): The emphasis on building a strong, supportive community within a secure environment helps residents transition from survival mode to a more stable and cooperative living situation.

- **Faith and Spiritual Growth** (36:24-37:54): While non-religious, the club encourages spiritual growth and finding a higher power as crucial components of recovery, supporting residents in exploring and developing their spiritual beliefs as part of the healing process.

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