From the age of 14 to 28 years old, Chris was struggling with all types of substances and was incarcerated multiple times. He lived a life of rinse and repeat and had expected to die while in carceration or on the streets. During his last residential stay, he gained hope and things started to change.  While he did have trouble finding work with his justice-involved history, he found work as a peer support at HOPE inc, a peer-led behavioral health agency. He now is Regional Manager of Community Programs and is proud to be able to give back to his community.

Chris wanted to let people who are struggling with substance use to know that recovery is possible. He also encourages young people to get educated.