The News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
Men in recovery have a place to stay
A nonprofit organization that is dedicated to helping others is now a step closer to providing alcoholfree and drug-free housing to men who are recovering from substance abuse.
About seven months ago, Friends of Recovery NE Ohio acquired a property in Willoughby that required extensive renovations.
Now the construction is near completion. On April 15, about 30 volunteers applied 40 gallons of paint to the walls. Friends of Recovery Northeast Ohio Director Dennis Anthony said new flooring will be installed later this week.
It will be called the Tikvah Recovery Home for Men and will occupy four male residents over the age of 18 and one live-in house manager.
Anthony said he will continue to interview candidates for the house manager position.
“It has to be a special person,” he said. “We’re in no rush, we want to make sure everything is ready before opening.”
After a house manager is selected and trained, Anthony
will began the process to selecting residents.
Besides a fresh coat of paint and new floors, other repairs included a roof replacement; new electrical and plumbing; new heating and air conditioning; restoration due to water damage, cosmetic additions and exterior repairs.
“The house has been completely transformed and we
hope to transform the lives of the residents,” he said.
The Tikvah Recovery Home for Men will be a State Certified Level II Ohio Recovery House that will offer many services including structure and routine designed to support a life in recovery, peer support, fundamental financial management and other life skills.
It was through continuous fundraising that the renovations were made possible.
“We have received an overwhelming response,” he said.
Other community members have donated their time and talents to assist.
“It’s amazing how many volunteers we’ve had and the ministering that have already been done,” he said.
Friends of Recovery NE Ohio’s mission is to offer safe, sober and hope-filled residences where individuals can grow in their recovery.
Although most of the construction is done in the home, there are many other ways to help.
Anthony said the home still needs a new dishwasher, garbage disposal, microwave, stove, washer, dryer, two computers, curtains and rods, couch, two recliners, coffee table, end table, five beds, five dressers, five nightstands, five lamps, eight ceiling fans/ lights, three toilets, kitchen sink and faucet and a television.
To donate, mail donations to P.O. Box 226, Willoughby, OH 44096; or contact Dennis Anthony at 440-669-9595 or danthony@friendsofrecoveryneo.org.