Welcome to the Council Connection
In this fall’s edition, we’re highlighting the expansion of our Supportive Services for Veteran Families program, which will allow us to reach even more veterans in need, and we’re celebrating our significant achievements during Recovery Month. We’ll also shine a spotlight on Michael Watkins, whose compassionate leadership of the Overdose Response Team is making a lasting impact on individuals battling substance use. Plus, discover how you can support our mission by becoming a Friend of the Council.
Agency Updates:
Expansion of Our SSVF Program
We are excited to announce that Recovery Resource Council will receive an additional $1.2 million in funding from the VA for our Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program in fiscal year 2025. Currently serving Tarrant, Denton, and Wichita counties, this significant expansion will allow us to extend our vital services to Dallas, Collin, and Parker counties, reaching an additional 120 veteran households.
Our SSVF program is dedicated to preventing homelessness and providing rapid rehousing for low-income veterans and their families. Through personalized case management, we offer critical services such as emergency financial assistance, housing stability planning, and access to mental health counseling, healthcare navigation, and substance use disorder treatment. We also assist with obtaining VA benefits and employment support.
With the new funding, we will enhance our capacity to offer these services across a broader geographic area, building on our existing infrastructure and increasing our staffing to meet the growing demand. This expansion means that even more veterans and their families will receive the support they need to achieve housing stability and improve their quality of life.
“This expansion is a remarkable milestone for our community. It allows us to reach more veterans who need our support and ensures that they receive the comprehensive care and stability they deserve,” said Tamieka McLaurin, Assistant Director of Special Populations, who oversees the SSVF program.
We’re excited to broaden our impact and continue our mission to serve those who have served us. Stay tuned for more updates as we roll out these enhanced services across North Texas.
Community Engagement:
Recovery Month Recap
September was Recovery Month, and since 1989, this observance has been dedicated to raising awareness about evidence-based treatments, uplifting the recovery community, and honoring the service providers who make recovery possible.
Throughout the month, our organization participated in several impactful events that celebrated the resilience and progress of individuals in recovery. On September 21st, our Prevention Team and Recovery Services hosted activities for the community at Recovery in the Park in Fort Worth, TX, alongside Fort Worth Texas Association of Addiction Professionals (TAAP). The event featured live music, inspiring speakers, and family-friendly fun, highlighting the joy and connection that recovery brings. That same day, we joined families from across Texas at the Big Texas Rally for Recovery in Dallas, part of the “Well Well West Festival.” This free community event marked the 35th anniversary of Recovery Month, celebrating health, wellness, and the power of recovery.
In addition to community events, we were honored by the Tarrant County Commissioners Court on September 17th with a resolution recognizing our 78 years of service and our ongoing dedication to promoting recovery and reducing addiction stigma. Finally, two of our outstanding staff members, Becky Tinney and James Tapscott, were recognized at the TAAP Conference in San Antonio from September 4-7, 2024. Becky was named Prevention Specialist of the Year, while James was awarded Peer Specialist of the Year, honoring their exceptional dedication and contributions to the recovery community.
Through these events and recognitions, the Council demonstrated its unwavering commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive community. As we continue our efforts beyond Recovery Month, we remain dedicated to providing vital services, reducing stigma, and championing the recovery journey for individuals and families throughout North Texas.
Staff Spotlight:
Meet Michael Watkins
This fall, we are proud to feature Michael Watkins, an inspiring member of our team and Program Supervisor of the Overdose Response Team (ORT). With a background in social sciences and certifications as a Recovery Support Peer Specialist, 300-Hour Mindfulness Teacher, and an ordained lay Buddhist minister, Michael has dedicated his life to helping others find freedom from addiction. His personal recovery journey has been a guiding force, driving his passion for the work he does with the Council.
As Program Supervisor, Michael plays a pivotal role in coordinating our response to overdose cases across North Texas. He started as a Peer Support Specialist, following up on clients, and now oversees all teams in Dallas, Denton, Plano, and Tarrant Counties. In addition to supporting his peers in the field, Michael provides Narcan administration and Fentanyl awareness training to communities and organizations, ensuring life-saving information and resources reach those in need. “Our program is on the front lines, meeting people where they are and offering them healthier, happier ways to live,” says Michael.
Driven by his own recovery experience, Michael emphasizes the importance of compassion in his work. “When I first sobered up, I didn’t know how to live this new life, but I was guided by caring friends and mentors. I took a vow to help others in the same way.” His leadership and dedication have been instrumental in building trust with clients and empowering them on their journey to recovery. “If we can meet our clients with compassion and empower them to find a recovery path that works for them, then we are truly contributing to RRC’s mission.”
Fundraising Focus:
Become a Friend of the Council
Did you know? Every day, countless North Texans struggle with the effects of trauma, mental health challenges, and substance use. As a result of the Council’s work in fiscal year 2023, over 65,000 youth and adults benefitted from the free services, treatment, and education programs we provide.
One easy way to join us in continuing this crucial mission is by becoming a Friend of the Council! As a member of our community of supporters, you have the opportunity to contribute on a monthly or annual basis while enjoying perks along the way.
Friends of the Council members make minimum pledges of $25 a month/$300 a year. Your contribution will help provide:
• Meals for at-risk youth participating in our health and wellness camps.
• Outpatient treatment and recovery support services for clients navigating sobriety.
• Counseling sessions for teens struggling with mental health issues.
• Comprehensive case management for formerly unhoused clients.
• Psychotherapy for veterans and their family members.
See the difference we make through the story of one of our clients. Sam, a resilient 70-year-old veteran, overcame a tumultuous childhood and a challenging adulthood marked by housing instability. With the Council’s Supportive Services for Veteran Families program, Sam secured stable housing and continues to overcome obstacles with the help of his dedicated case manager. “These people are serious. They’re determined to help you,” Sam reflects, highlighting the purpose and support he’s found through our services.
If you’re ready to make meaningful change across 20 North Texas counties, we invite you to sign up! We look forward to welcoming you as a Friend of the Council and working together to promote wellness and recovery in our community. Please reach out if you have any questions or would like to learn more.