Rebuilding Lives for Men and Women with Dignity, Honor & Respect

Vol. 30 No. 2 A News Publication of Bridge House / Grace House Summer 2014 Return on Investment– I’ve found my- Treatment is Cost Effective self again from a Grace House alumna Else Pedersen CEO 1 (Principles of Drug Addiction Treat- I am a 34 year old alcoholic/addict Investing in our fathers and mothers, ment; A Research-Based Guide, NIH who thought my life was completely sons and daughters, friends Publication No. 00-4180, hopeless. I was adopted and grew up and neighbors in need of 2000). Treatment is cost in Ascension parish. I have two older treatment may not repre- effective and provides a ter- brothers who are not biological, and sent the traditional interpre- rific return on investment. my family structure was stable and tation of Return on Invest- Bridge House / Grace successful. I have always been very ment. We can, however, House evaluates our pro- close to my immediate and extended certainly relate to the finan- grams using measurable family. My extended family is very cial benefit that treatment outcomes based upon the large but we always made time to for substance use depen- National Outcome Mea- have family functions. My childhood dence offers to those we sures developed by the was really good but there is also some serve and to the community U.S. Substance Abuse and sexual abuse in my story. I was a very that we live in. Consider Else Pedersen Mental Health Services hyperactive kid growing up, so I was the following: according to Administration (SAMHSA). always getting myself into some kind several conservative esti- We survey individuals upon of trouble. mates, every $1 invested in addiction entry and completion of treatment to I grew up with very strong morals and treatment programs yields a return of assess: 1) frequency of use 2) em- values. By my high school years, I between $4 and $7 in reduced drug- ployment status 3) criminal justice was involved in a lot of extracurricular related crime, criminal justice costs, involvement 4) stability of housing and activities like dancing, modeling, and and theft alone. When savings related 5) social connectedness. to health care are included, total sav- cheer leading. I also started drink- ing can exceed costs by a ratio of 12: A set of graphs detailing the results ing and using at this phase of my life. of these surveys is pictured This was the beginning of my chaos. By The Numbers Jan 31-April 30, 2014 on page 11. As depicted in By the 10th grade, the effects of my these graphs, all of these drinking and using really started catch- Calls for Help: 3,997 measurements are indications ing up to me. I dropped out of school of the very positive outcomes and got my GED. I stopped dancing, Daily Capacity: 176 that those who participate in modeling, and cheer leading. I started treatment have the potential working my way into restaurants be- These numbers reflect the over- to experience. The economic cause I wanted to bar tend. I started whelming demand for our substance impact of those members of working two jobs, both in bars, by the abuse treatment services our society in active addiction age of 18. Things started to really For treatment call 504-821-7120 is felt throughout our social sys- become reckless at this point. I was

ROI continued on p. 2 FOUND continued on p. 9 02 Bridge House / Grace House Ignatian Spirituality Project ROI continued from p. 1

Executive Director of Clinical Services Bridge House / Grace House tems – the criminal justice system, the Bridge House / Grace House has a to be willing to share their story and health system and overall productivity. longstanding partnership with the want to companion with others in their Through treatment we contribute to Ignatian Spirituality Project (ISP) which journey. the redevelopment of lives, communi- is based in Chicago and The ISP retreats would ties and families. leads spirituality retreats not be possible without throughout the country We are very grateful for your contin- dedicated retreat facilita- focusing on individuals ued support. You do get a compel- tors and team members who are in recovery and ling Return on Investment through that volunteer their time. homeless. The retreats your support of Bridge House / Grace ISP forms retreat teams in help Bridge House and House! each of their twenty cities Grace House clients find to help facilitate the retreat meaning and purpose as Else Pedersen MBA, LAC ministry. Susan Rodriquez they reclaim their lives. [email protected] initiated the relationship ISP began in 1998 when 504.821.7122 with Grace House in 2011 Father Bill Creed, SJ was and leads the women’s invited to begin making Michelle Gaiennie ISP team in the New Or- the Spiritual Exercises of leans area which hosted St. Ignatius available to the economi- Christmas in July the first female retreat at Manresa cally disadvantaged. Together with Retreat House in 2013. Bridge House Sunday, July 27, 2014 his friend Ed Shurna, Director of the clients have been attending the ISP 10 AM-1 PM Chicago Coalition for the Homeless, retreats for many years at Manresa 1160 Camp Street they created a retreat that brought Retreat House and Ronald Briggs re- , LA 70130 hope to those suffering with addiction cently started as the men’s ISP retreat and homelessness. The ISP developed One of three times a year when we team leader. Bride House and Grace a retreat based on the 500 year old open up our doors to serve a holi- House clients are able to participate in tradition of Ignatian Spirituality while day meal and give clothing from our two day retreats, days of reflection and using the principles of the 12-Step Thrift Stores to the homeless and ongoing reflection programs through program of recovery (e.g., AA). Both of indigent population of New Orleans. ISP. We would like to thank Susan and these programs seek to inspire greater Donations of cash, food, drink, and Ronnie for bringing this blessing to the knowledge of one’s self and one’s rela- serving items make this event an individuals we serve at Bridge House / tionship with God and/or Higher Power annual success. Grace House. as an agent of change within one’s life. For more information contact The great majority of retreatants have Michelle Gaiennie, LCSW, ADS Joe Pitman at 504-821-7288 or had a lifelong struggle with addiction. [email protected] [email protected] The retreats focus on freedom from 504.821.7123 addiction, compulsion, obsessions and the call to be oneself and to be in a right relationship with others and Want to stay in God. In terms of the Twelve Steps, the retreat focuses on the first three steps: contact with us? unmanageability of my life, belief that Please contact Lauren Selenberg God can save me from myself, sur- at [email protected] or render in trust by placing my life and 504.821.7141 if you’d like to stay will into the care of God. Retreatants up to date with Bridge House / are asked to be sober for two months, Grace House via email. 03 Bridge House / Grace House What a Day—May 6, 2014 Volunteer From the Executive Director of Development Spotlight What a great day May 6, 2014 was for to rally throughout the day and we Bridge House / Grace House and for remained high on the leaderboard. Andree Batt, Carey Yacoubian, and the city of New Orleans. The Greater Out of over 300 non-profits in our Denise Thornton are the Auction Chairs New Orleans Foundation area soliciting dona- for the Women of Substance Luncheon. (GNOF) hosted its first, tions through Give Nola Through their hard work, they have 24-hour online funding Day, we finished 5th in shaped this auction into one of the must- campaign, GiveNOLA total dollars raised. Our see events of the season. They were all Day, on Tuesday, May grand total was $48,500. friends with each other before they started 6th. GNOF is our com- $48,500 was raised for volunteering with Bridge House / Grace munity foundation serving Bridge House / Grace House and for the last three years they’ve the 13-parish region of House in ONE day, phe- been working diligently together to add metropolitan New Or- nomenal! And a portion to the magic of Women of Substance. leans. GiveNOLA Day of that will be matched This event would not be the same without was part of a national by the Lagniappe Fund. them, and we are forever grateful for their program called Give Local 221 individuals donated support. Here’s what they have to say America, where commu- Kevin Gardere to us on that day. That about their experiences: nity foundations in more is the largest number of than 70 cities asked their communi- donations we have ever received in a ties to give back. Give Local America single day. Thank you for being a part is a movement to reignite the spirit of of that number. giving across the country and support A huge thanks to our Board of Direc- causes in the communities in which tors, our Development Committee, we live, work and play. From Coast to our staff, and most importantly YOU. Coast, individuals just like you came What a great day for Bridge House together to “give local” through their / Grace House. As Else Pedersen, local community foundations. our CEO, said, “Our community is On Give NOLA day, a portion of every behind us! It is an awesome feeling!” donation made through GNOF’s web- Those we treat have lost everything Denise Thornton, Andree Batt, & site was matched by their Lagniappe and have nowhere else to turn. Your Carey Yacoubian Fund. Over 300 non-profits across our generosity helps us keep our doors area participated in this event. New open to continue serving those less How did you get involved with Bridge Orleans-area nonprofits raised nearly fortunate. House / Grace House? $2.3 million from nearly 20,000 do- Andree: I attended the fundraiser when We would also like to thank the Great- nors. GNOF more than doubled their my mother-in-law was an honoree and er New Orleans Foundation for orga- goal of $1 million. What a day! was very impressed with the mission of nizing this special day and providing Grace House and its success rate. The It was such a heartwarming day here the opportunity for our community to following year, Michelle Gaiennie asked if at Bridge House / Grace House. We join together and support the efforts of I would chair the auction for the Women of had set a goal to raise $30,000, but organizations working to make better Substance Luncheon. often wondered if our expectations lives for us all. maybe too high. By the time we all Carey: I was invited to attend a Women arrived at the office, we had already Kevin Gardere of Substance Luncheon several years raised $9,100. We constantly moni- Executive Director of Development ago and was moved by the testimonies tored the website GNOF had set up [email protected] of women who turned their lives around for the day. Our supporters continued 504.821.7133 because of the compassion and support found at the Grace House. SPOTLIGHT continued on p. 6 04 Bridge House / Grace House Inspirational Signs Upcoming Events From the Marketing Director Mr. Legs XIV Saturday, July 19, 2014 Last year we were very excited to met back at Grace House and asked Generations Hall build a women’s medical clinic at the residents which of these quotes 6-10 PM Grace House. The Tulane were the most comforting Medical students began to their recovery process. Silent Auction, Raffle, Food, Wacky Show providing services there We found that the slogans Tickets $50 in advance, $75 VIP (special at the end of last year, that are amongst us today viewing area) and our residents were upon the walls of this very Features contestants competing for the grateful to receive the room were the quotes that coveted title of “Mr. Legs” by entertaining care they needed. The meant the most to the the crowd with their costumes and per- only problem was that residents here. formances set to music. The title of Mr. the walls were bare, and Legs is awarded to the contest that raises On a more personal level, the clinic felt sterile. We the most funds for Bridge House / Grace volunteering for Grace were lucky enough to be House. House was especially approached by Adam important to me. I have Mysok, an Art Professor at Rockin’ with the NOLA Stars V Anne Springer seen friends go through . He was Saturday, September 6, 2014 both the negative effects interested in having his students cre- Generations Hall of addition, as well as the positive ate hand painted signs for community 6-10 PM outcomes of recovery. Having volun- clinics. We were thrilled to be chosen Silent Auction, Raffle, Food, and Dancing. teered at rehabilitation centers in my to be part of the project. After a lot of Media Sponsor: WGNO-TV and NOLA38 past I have witnessed the incredible hard work, the students unveiled their The CW. gift of treatment. With one day at time, uplifting creations to a group of staff, recovery is an option and it is truly Tickets $40 in advance, $75 VIP (special residents, and volunteers at the end remarkable to see it happen amongst viewing area) of their term. Here is the speech from us. I hope that the work that we have that day: Local celebrities pair up with Dance Quar- done at Grace House will continue ter professionals in this Dancing with a “My name is Bari-Lynn Friedlander to support everyone here with their Stars type event. The winner is the dancer and I, along with my classmates recovery process and bring us togeth- that raises the most funds for BH / GH. Casey Last, Charlie Bentley, Abbi er as a community. Recovery is not Ditesheim, and Elisabeth Knipp are just an immediate state of action, but Fore! Recovery Golf Tournament all honored to have been given this rather an ongoing process that needs Friday, September 26, 2014 opportunity to participate in creating a to be supported by both the commu- English Turn Golf & Country Club comfortable and welcoming space for nity inside and outside of the treatment Tee Time 12:30 PM the residents of Grace House. center. We hope that our work will help Registration begins at 11 AM to do just that.” We began our task by meeting the res- Scramble Format idents and learning more about their If you’re interested in seeing what Hole Sign $200 experience in treatment and recovery. these students created, please give Hearing their stories touched us all in me a call and I’ll give you a tour! Individual Player $200 ways that we could have never under- Corporate Sponsor (with foursome) $1,000 stood and encouraged us to create Anne Springer the best artwork for the space pro- Marketing Director vided. We chose to pull together a few [email protected] slogans and quotes that were derived 504.821.7134 from Alcoholics Anonymous and other inspirational platforms. From there, we For more information, visit: www.bridgehouse.org/events 05 Bridge House / Grace House

ing sessions, work with the clients to Work Therapy recognize that they are powerless over I just existed From the Vocational Department the decisions of their work supervi- From a Grace House resident sor and actions of their co-workers. At I am no stranger to treatment centers and In the Therapeutic Community work is the work sites, clients’ learn to accept I’m no stranger to Grace House. I am 51 considered a privilege. The residents the decisions of their supervisors and years old registered nurse, divorced and have an opportunity to serve the com- do the job that is required of them. the mother of 3 wonderful kids. I like to munity, to learn specific skills, and Another example is Step 4, Made a read, garden and decorate. I volunteered to use work for personal growth and searching and fearless moral inventory at my kid’s schools and took them on vaca- therapeutic change. Work life and per- of ourselves. Throughout the work- tion to the beach and the mountains. I had sonal life are indivisible; impediments day the clients are urged to have the a good life. The problem, I was an addict/ to job performance and production courage to evaluate their actions and alcoholic. The problem was me. are important indicators of personal perceptions about interactions with issues. co-workers and supervisors, and their I truly believe I was born an addict/alcohol- work production, and recovery. They ic. I’ve felt out of place my entire life, even Once a client has completed the Sta- are encouraged to ask themselves: as a small child. I had lots of friends and bilization phase of the program they How did I respond to my supervisor a decent family life—I just never felt like I are assigned to a work site. Work sites following a change in my job duties? belonged. I started drinking at the age of are primarily used to further the indi- Have I done my job willingly today? 16. Drugs followed soon after. This started vidual’s personal growth and social- What are some relapse triggers that I the life I was to know for the next 35 years. ization. This is done by: skills training face at my work place? I’ve been addicted to many different things- and education, identifying behaviors, drugs, food, relationships and alcohol. No attitudes, and emotional problem As work is an essential part of life, it risk was too great. I thought of no one but areas, testing the stability of newly is very important that our clients are myself. I was arrested 4 times. My nursing acquired changes, and challenging able to use the skills learned in Work license was suspended in 2006. The last the client to change further and take Therapy. By using these skills, our 3 arrest were for DUIs over a span of 14 on more responsibilities at the work clients are able to once again become months. I entered my first residential treat- site. A primary goal of the Vocational productive citizens who continue ment center in 2010. I spent 95 days there Staff is to assist clients with identifying to give back to the community and but I wasn’t ready. I didn’t change. the use of Step Tools in a safe work achieve a sustained recovery. environment to further their recovery. In the following year I spiraled out of For Example: Step 1. We admitted we Leon J. Naquin MS, LRC control, I lost my marriage, kids, parents, were powerless over alcohol- that our Vocational Director sisters, home, car, dogs… everything. I lives had become unmanageable. The [email protected] was in legal trouble and financial ruin. I vocational counselors, through weekly 504.821.7151 had no self-respect, self-esteem or spiritual work groups and individual counsel- connection. I just existed. I entered Grace House for the first time in Shop Our Thrift Stores! 2012. I don’t know what it feels like to be dying but, I believe that is what was hap- classic furniture pening to me. I was miserable and full quality used clothing vintage accessories of self-pity. But with the support from the reconditioned appliances counselors and other staff, and my com- mitment to Grace House program, my life turned around. I gained confidence and Low Prices, Unique Products, Great Cause. self-esteem. I enjoy helping others. I be- 1160 Camp Street 7901 Airline Drive came a role model and a leader. I gained New Orleans 70130 Metairie 70003 a spiritual connection and knew peace and 504.522.4476 ext16 504.737.4752 happiness for the first time in my life. I had a job. I had my kids and family back. I felt To make a donation/schedule a pickup call 504-525-3130 like I belonged. EXISTED continued on p. 7 06 Bridge House / Grace House

SPOTLIGHT continued from p. 3

Certification, Recertification, and Denise: In 2010 I was one of the Supervision honorees at the Women of Substance Luncheon. Traditionally, the honorees Bridge House Clinical Corner are invited to tour the facility and learn When Bridge House / Grace House require education hours and direct more about the program. This gave made the commitment to become fully counselor supervision to become me an opportunity to speak personally credentialed by The Commission on licensed. Continuing education hours with a few of the clients and witness Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facili- are required ever after for recertifica- first-hand the difference this program ties (CARF), one of the areas of focus tion (renewal) to maintain licensure. is making in their lives. As the daugh- is staff education. Every member of Licensing requires a period of Intern- ter of a substance abuser I recog- the staff receives annual, mandatory, ship under a fully Licensed Clinical nize and appreciate the value of this education and training in order to work Supervisor for a period of not less program in changing the lives of the for Bridge House / Grace House. The than two years. This allows counselor willing women who have committed courses explain how to continuously who are new in the field to have the themselves to getting help and once improve the way we provide services support and guidance from an expe- again becoming productive members and care for the individuals we serve. rienced counselor to help them learn of their families and their community. the profession. For the counseling staff, there is at- What’s your favorite part about vol- tention to very practical certifications Bridge House / Grace House is ac- unteering with us? such as CPR and First Aid, as well as tively supporting the counseling staff to Andree: I like seeing the clients instruction on maintaining confidential- work toward licensure by helping with involved in the fundraisers as it gives ity, fire safety, record keeping, crisis the costs of clinical supervision and them a sense of self-worth. It gives me management, counseling, treatment paying for Relias Learning. Frequently, great satisfaction seeing the clients planning, referral, and all aspects counselors who are new to the field contribute their efforts to the various of providing services in the best way have a problem affording the costs of events that Grace House / Bridge possible. Treatment is evidence- supervision and it is huge to have this House hold during the course of the based—meaning there is research financial help. They are not allowed to year. that supports the efficacy of particular work in the field without appropriate Carey: My favorite part about volun- interventions and work in counseling. supervision. The decision to invest in teering is knowing that I am helping The academic classes are offered the counseling staff in such a signifi- those who otherwise would be unable online through Relias Learning from cant way speaks volumes in regards to receive the quality of treatment that Accreditation Now. The counseling to Bridge House / Grace House’s the Bridge House and Grace House and counseling related classes that commitment to excellence in the field. offer. It gives me a pleasant feeling of are offered through Relias are recog- Bridge House / Grace House has connectedness and the satisfaction nized and accepted by the major cer- made it mandatory and affordable that of trying to make the world a better tifying and licensing boards; indicating all of the counseling staff continuously place. the coursework meets or exceeds works toward licensure. The offer of Denise: My favorite part of volunteer- the board’s certification criteria. The financial support for ongoing educa- ing with Grace House is working with counseling staff must be masters’ tion, and supervision is a very positive people who have a genuine interest level therapists working with a clini- change for everyone. in helping others. It has been very cal supervisor to become certified or rewarding. licensed in their profession. The Ad- Jo E. Cohen, LPC, LMFT, LAC, CCS dictive Disorders Regulatory Authority, Bridge House Clinical Director the Licensed Professional Counselors [email protected] Help with special Board of Examiners, the Licensed 504.821.7286 Marriage and Family Therapists Board events! of Examiners, and the State If you would like to join Board of Social Work Examiners all a special event fundrais- ing committee, please call 504.821.7133. 07 Bridge House / Grace House

EXISTED continued from p. 5

Weekly Aftercare Group I completed the program in May 2013. I left Grace House Clinical Corner Clients in treatment continuously ex- with the tools and knowledge to be success- Successful completion of the Bridge press how inspiring it is to see alumni ful in sobriety, but I chose not to use them. I House / Grace House program is stay involved and stay sober. let old relationships and habits back in and I a huge accomplishment for many While participation in the weekly relapsed quickly. The consequences came clients. Completing treatment, not Aftercare group is optional for those just as quickly and they were more severe. I an easy task for many addicts and who complete treatment, it is a sunk into a very lonely, dark, blackness. alcoholics, is one step on the path requirement for clients in our Per- I admitted myself back into Grace House to recovery. After completing treat- manent Supportive Housing (PSH) September 20, 2013, I was broken. I was ment, many clients find that the “real Program. The PSH Program offers terrified-not of dying but of existing in the world” is a scary place filled with rental assistance for clients who were “black”. I feared I would never again experi- new responsibilities, stressors, and homeless prior to treatment and is an ence the place of happiness from the year difficulties. On top of maintaining excellent opportunity for these clients before. I remembered how good it felt. My recovery, clients have to find a bal- to rebuild their lives. children and family were angry, hurt and ance between working, paying bills, disappointed. parenting, building new relationships, I am proud to say the PSH Program Once again I followed the suggestions of the repairing old ones, effectively com- is at full capacity with 22 clients and G.H. program and I slowly emerged from municating, and utilizing coping skills. there are many clients on the waiting the “black”. I was honest with my counselor, After leaving treatment, clients may list. Each week, the Aftercare group participated in group and became active find themselves without a support is growing and it is great to see the with my sponsor in A.A., mostly I prayed. network. Luckily, clients who com- excitement and involvement of our Slowly my confidence and self-esteem came plete Bridge House / Grace House alumni. It is an honor to work with the back, replacing the shame and guilt. My re- treatment programs are eligible to PSH and Aftercare clients and I enjoy lationship with my kids and family improved. attend the weekly Aftercare group. watching them grow and change into The Aftercare group is an option for the amazing people they are. I am I have been here almost 5 months and my clients to maintain ties with the Bridge grateful for our clients because they journey has not been without struggles. I House / Grace House support net- have helped show me how important relapsed at about my 4th month, but by the work. The Aftercare group meets on it is to take life one day at a time. grace of god and the support and under- Thursdays at 6:00 p.m. at the Grace standing of the staff and my peers at Del- House Camp Street location. Sharon Burgamy, M.Ed., NCC, CI chaise, I was allowed to stay. For that and Permanent Supportive Housing Coordinator so much more, I will be forever grateful. The members of our Aftercare group [email protected] Today, I am here at Grace House, and I’m have varying levels of sobriety, which 504.821.2455 sober. That peace and happiness is return- help make the group diverse and ing, just a bit slower than I’d like. I live offers different perspectives on a day by day and I know it’s not going to be variety of topics. Clients starting on easy. I’m fighting for my life. I’m going to do the path to their recovery can gain whatever it takes. I’m being given all that is wisdom from those who have gone necessary to live a sober, productive life. I through the same process. The sup- just need to do the work. port network gained from Aftercare is invaluable and has helped many I have confidence that I will use all the alumni stay sober. Many of our Want a tax deduction? gifts that have been given to me by Grace Aftercare members stay involved with Got an old car? House, my counselor, the staff, my peers, current clients through sponsorship, Donate your car today! my sponsor, the AA Program, and—most offering employment opportunities, important—God. I will be successful in speaking to clients during therapeu- recovery and life. I‘ll have all the peace and tic groups, and showing up for Chip Call 504-598-3355 happiness I deserve. Night, picnics, and other activities. Karen H. 08 Bridge House / Grace House Cochon Cotillion XVIII

From the Events and Outreach Director Pourceau Sponsors Bridge House / Grace House and the sons , , Brian McDonald Arlene Rome Chopin, Wagar, Richard & Kutcher Krewe of Pork and Beads presented and . Bridge Tiffany Markey-Truxillo LLP Cochon Cotillion XVIII on Saturday, House / Grace House thanks all of our Entergy donors, volunteers, Freeman residents, and staff Laitram that help make the Mr. & Mrs. John Goodman Cochon Cotillion a The Roger Ogden Family special event–crucial Marcassin Sponsors to raising much need- Aaron’s ed funds to support Abita Brewing Co. our substance abuse Boh Bros treatment program Carrollton Group for men and women Counter Top Factory that may not be able Crosby Tugs, Inc. to afford the service Dameron Pierson otherwise. Delgado Community College King Roger Ogden & Mark your calendars Evans Landscaping Queen Patricia Denechaud for Cochon Cotil- Frames, Inc. lion XIX on Saturday, April 18, 2015 Gulf Coast Bank and Trust April 5th, 2013 at Blaine Kern’s Mardi at Blaine Kern’s Mardi Gras World Jason Vaughn Gras World. King Roger Odgen and (Eastbank)! Jones Walker L.L.P. presided Queen Patricia Denechaud Jos. R. Labadot, Inc. over 800 Cotillion patrons. An indoor Joe Pitman, MBA Kelly & Abide parade led by the King and Queen Events and Outreach Director Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home showered the attendees with beads [email protected] & Cemeteries and souvenirs cups. 504.821.7288 Latter & Blum WGNO-TV’s “News with a Twist” co- Linda & Gordon Kolb hosts Susan Roesgen and LeBron M.A. Green Shopping Center Media Sponsor “LBJ” Joseph served as emcees for Manning Passing Academy WGNO-TV and NOLA38 The CW the evening. Many local restaurants The MCC Group, LLC Event Sponsors participated to provide a terrific feast M Press Goldring Family Foundation for all. Mike Morris Joe W. & Dorothy Dorsett Brown Mudbug Plumbing and Repair Mike Morris provided the entertain- Foundation New Orleans Marriott ment for the King and Queen’s court Woldenberg Foundation NOLA Flora party prior to the Cotillion as well as Cochon Sponsors Peoples Health singing for the silent auction bidders. tigerdroppings.com Postlethwaite & Netterville The band, ELS, and Cochon Cotillion Whitman Family Foundation Rathborne Companies East, LLC veterans delighted the crowd through- Sanglier Sponsors Richard Vallon out the evening. anonymous River Parish Disposal Capital One RSVP Decorating A special thanks goes out to the First NBC Bank Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Romig Krewe of Pork and Beads for putting The Rusovich Family Verges Rome Architects, APAC on another phenomenal Cochon Cotil- Matilda Geddings Gray Foundation Whitney Bank lion. The Krewe is led by co-chairper- Salmen Family Foundation Xerox 09 Bridge House / Grace House

Cochon Cotillion In-Kind Donors FOUND continued from p. 1 Abita Brewing Company Jefferson Performing Arts Cooking losing myself in my using but that still did American Aquatic Gardens Society New Orleans Steamboat not bother me. Arc of Greater New Orleans Karla Katz Antiques Company When I was 24, I got married. I thought Audubon Nature Institute Kentwood Spring Water NOLA Flora that starting a family would be the turning Azby’s Inc. Orleans Coffee Exchange point in my life and solve my problems. I Marc Bravo Kidsports Family Fun & Palace Cafe had two boys—one was at was age 25 Bravo Italian Kitchen Fitness Pascal’s Manale Restau- and one at age 26. By the time I turned Byrdie’s Krispy Kreme Doughnuts rant Inc. 27 I crossed that imaginary line where Cafe Reconcile Le Pavillion Hotel PF Changs things went from bad to completely out Casa Garcia Louisiana Children’s Mu- Porta Puppet Players of control. I left my husband and my Casamento’s Restaurant seum Rock-N-Bowl two beautiful boys to live a street life Catalog Collection where no one or nothing else was more Château du Lac important than getting and using more Mary Ann Chesson drugs. I was in a car accident that almost City Park paralyzed me. I started going to jail and Cold Stone Cream- collecting felony charges. I lost my kids, ery Elmwood my whole family, my home, and myself Cooter Brown’s along the way. Copelands Court of Two Sis- When I came into Grace House I was ters completely beat down, broken, and Delgado Communi- feeling like all hope was lost. I stopped ty College Culinary having faith in anything and lost all of my Arts morals and values. I knew I had to either EAT New Orleans change my ways or I would end up dead. Bronwen Fitzpatrick LBJ introduces costume contest finalists Coming into Grace House and learning Frame City & Art coping skills and other tools to use my re- Gallery Louisiana Coca-Cola Bot- RSVP Decorating covery process has surely saved my life. Frames Inc. tling Co. Semolina Clearview After working with my sponsor through Freeman Decorating Com- Louisiana State Museum Smitty’s Seafood Restau- the 12 steps, my weekly one-on-ones pany Marriott Hotel rant with my counselor, and meetings with French Art Network Maurice French Pastries Ted’s Frostop my treatment team at Grace House, I’m Barbara B. Gaiennie Mignon Faget, Ltd. The Prytania Theatre happy to say that I’ve found myself again. Galerie Severn, Inc. Mike Morris Rodney J. Thoulion I’m back in my family’s lives again and I Gifted Nurses M Press Richard R. Vallon have a relationship with my kids again. Glenn Michael Salons Napoleon House Bar & Villere’s Florist My life is completely turning around. Grace House Cafe Vincent’s Italian Cuisine I have complete trust and faith in my Harold’s Neal Auction Co. Voleo’s Seafood Restau- higher power. My life is also filled with High Hat Cafe New Orleans Auction Gal- rant hope again and I’m amazed by that daily. Hobnobber Cafe leries, Inc. WGNO-TV & NOLA38 The I know that as long as I stay sober one Hong Kong Food Market New Orleans Museum of CW day at a time and follow my program Nancy Iovino Art Gretchen Wheaton as suggested, things will only continue Jaeger’s Seafood Restau- Ye Olde College Inn to get better for me. Grace House has rant New Orleans School of given me my life back and it feels new and improved today. I am truly grateful for Grace House and all the staff involved in Thanks for your support! my recovery.

Miranda A. 10 Bridge House / Grace House 19th Annual Women of Substance Luncheon

Honorees: Dr. Jayne Gurtler, PK Scheerle R.N., & Carol A. Solomon The 19th Annual Women of Substance received the Richard “Buzzy” Gaiennie Bridge House / Grace House thanks Luncheon, with Peoples Health serving Award, Deacon Jay Albert received the all of our honorees, donors, attendees, as the Leadership Sponsor, was held at Volunteer Recognition Award, and Lau- volunteers, and especially our amazing the Audubon Tea Room on Friday, May ren Selenberg was honored as Alumna Women of Substance Committee for 9th, 2014. Over 370 people attended of the Year. another magnificent luncheon--it was the luncheon to honor our three Saving our best year yet! We hope to see you Emceed by Mark Romig, the event also Graces—Women of Wellness Honor- in 2015 at our 20th Annual Women of featured musical entertainment by Mike ees: , Substance Luncheon! Dr. Jayne Gurtler PK Scheerle Morris. Richard Vallon provided his R.N., & Carol A. Solomon. Meg Farris spectacular photography services.

Leadership Sponsor Commitment Sponsors Peoples Health Anonymous Gap Inc. Tigerdroppings.com Integrity Sponsors Boh Bros Gifted Nurses, LLC Susan Tyler Command Construction Chopin, Wagar, Richard & Dr. Jayne Gurtler Verges Rome Architects, First NBC Bank Kutcher, LLP Jos. A. Bank Clothiers APAC Laitram Cox Communications New Orleans Magazine Waldemar S. Nelson and Whitman Family Foundation EMR Ochsner Health System Company Entergy The Rusovich Family

A L Lowe Picture BevoloWomen Gas & Electric ofGentry Substance Corp Lakeview In-Kind Brew Coffee DonorsOgden Museum of Monteleone Frames Lights Gifted Nurses Cafe Southern Art Spring ABC Lighting, Inc. Betty Hunley Designs Gordon Bierch Brewery Leontine Linens One 2 One Personal Studio Inferno Adler’s Donation Com- Boundless Shipping Gracious Bakery Louisiana Pizza Kitchen Training The Blues Jean Bar mittee Brown Family Ortho- Harriet Lowell Stafford Uptown Palm Village The Garden Gates Alex Mena Furniture dontics Interiors Louisiana State Mu- Paris Parker Salon and The Occasional Wife Design Catalog Collection Hazelnut seum Spa The Plant Gallery Arnaud’s Restaurant Charlotte Williamson, Hemline LSED Perch The Woodhouse Day Art4Now LLC. Hotel Monteleone Guy Lyman Pinkberry Spa Audubon Dermatology Chris Owen’s Club Steven L. Huber Stephany Lyman Pippen Lane Tony Mandina’s Audubon Nature Martin Claiborne Hyme Tyme Maurice French Pas- Pure Barre Uptown Car Wash Institute Lynette Collins Walker Jean Therapy tries Romney Pilates Urban Roots Azby’s Commander’s Palace John’s Tuxedos, Inc. Miss Smarty Pants Royal Blend Weinstein’s Inc. Basics Underneath Fine Dirty Coast LLC Jos. A. Bank Clothiers Mon Coeur Scriptura Wirthmore Antiques Lingerie Estella’s Too Julie Neill Designs Moss Antiques Sheraton New Orleans Zoe’s Kitchen Beafrizball fine Pew- Everbody Wellness Stewart Juneau Muriel’s Restaurant Simply Fit terware Barbara B. Gaiennie Keith Noonan Salon New Orleans Ballet As- SMG Bergeron Woodworks Galatoire’s Restaurant Kyoto sociation Spa Aria at the Hotel 11 Bridge House / Grace House 2013 Bridge House / Grace House Impact Report

In 2013, Bridge House / Grace House provided substance abuse treatment to 400 men and 347 women. The graphs below reflect the impact treatment has had on their lives as well as our community as a whole. Through generous dona- tions and support from the community, we have achieved the results seen below.

Decreased Drug and Alcohol Use Increased Employment Income

Reduced Criminal Activity Increased Stability of Housing

Each resident is assessed upon entry and exit of treatment. Increased Involvement in Social/Recovery Support Activities The following was captured through these assessments: • A 96% reduction in the use of drugs and alcohol upon exit of treatment by both men and women. • A 28% increase for men and a 24% increase for women in employment income upon exiting treatment. • A 75.6% decrease for men and a 77% decrease for women in reported criminal activity upon exit of treatment. • A 54% decrease for men and a 58% decrease for women in homelessness or unstable housing situations upon exit of treatment. • A 72% increase for men and a 73% increase for women in involvement in social/recovery support activities upon exit. Non-Profit Organization Bridge House Corporation U.S. Postage 4150 Earhart Blvd. PAID Permit No. 1392 New Orleans, LA 70125 New Orleans, LA

Address Service Requested

Rebuilding Lives for Men and Women with Dignity, Honor & Respect

The mission of Bridge House / Grace House is to provide gender specific treatment to men and women who have be- Inside This Issue: come dependent on alcohol or drugs so that they may lead sober and productive lives. Return on Investment from the CEO p. 1 Ignatian Spirituality Project p. 2 Long-term residential services are offered in an atmo- What a Day—May 6, 2014 p. 3 sphere that promotes dignity, honor and respect. These Inspirational Signs p. 4 services are offered regardless of one’s ability to pay. Certification, Recertification, & Supervision p. 6 Weekly Aftercare Group p. 7 Cochon Cotillion Recap p. 8 Women of Substance Recap p. 10 2013 Impact Report p. 11