A Graduation to Remember

Graduation day marks a special milestone for all who have worked diligently to accomplish their goals and take a step closer to their dreams. For the five brave individuals who were awarded their graduation certificate on May 26th, 2022, from the Lynchburg Adult Drug Treatment Court (LADC), this was a memorable milestone indeed. In many ways, this triumphant moment represented a new beginning in which individuals could celebrate with pride their decision to dedicate themselves to their recovery, a feat that only some can truly understand and appreciate but we all can deeply respect.

A captivated audience at the 2022 Lynchburg Drug Court Graduation Ceremony.

For those who are unfamiliar with the Lynchburg Drug Treatment Court program, the goal is to intercept individuals who have been introduced to the court system as a result of a drug-related charge. From there, those that qualify are given the option to enter into the program which provides attentive, layered accountability, as well as a combination of treatments and supports based on each individuals’ unique needs. The outcome is two-fold. Necessary treatment is provided in a person’s natural environment where evidence suggests greater success in long-term recovery, while also reducing recidivism, an overwhelming burden faced by local prison systems. The result, as clearly demonstrated in the graduate speeches, are nothing short of inspiring.

A packed Courtroom sat silently as the graduates in attendance shared their appreciation, their story of growth, and future plans to help others along their journey of recovery.

Joined by many community partners such as the Court System, Probation and Parole, and the Virginia Department of Health, and outspoken program advocates, Congressman Bob Good, Delegate Windle Walker, and Anna Powers of the Supreme Court, Horizon enjoyed sharing this triumphant moment with the program’s 2022 graduates.

Horizon proudly congratulates each graduate on this tremendous achievement followed by a message of appreciation to the Horizon teams who have poured into the lives of each graduate and other clients in the program.

Where I was a few months back, I’m not that person anymore. I appreciate every single one of you that helped me get on the right track.

These stories of success as well as news of expanding funding from the Bureau of Justice Administration (BJA) are telling of the hard work invested into this program and the lives it has touched in our community.

Pictured above, Melissa Lucy, CEO of Horizon, stands adjacent Rhonda Turner, LDTC Program Manager, and Debra Jefferson, CIT Coordinator at Horizon.

To learn more about plans on the Horizon to expand this program, visit www.horizonbh.org/about-us/in-the-news/.