Steven

"I wanted to drop out. I kept telling my mom I wanted to drop out. But now I've decided I'll graduate from high school—even if it takes me a while"

-16-year-old Steven

Steven was before the Juvenile Court on charges related to his substance use. His family had a history of alcoholism and drug addiction—and they had been homeless several times. When Steven came into court, he was smoking marijuana and drinking every day. In desperation he told his probation officer that he needed help and wanted treatment—even if he had to be in a locked setting. The Court ordered Steven into short-term residential treatment and asked ACS to help connect him with an appropriate program. This crucial step allowed Steven to become clean and sober while free from pressures in his home and community.

But it didn't solve the longer-term problem—who would help Steven sustain the gains he made while in residential care? Steven's family was supportive but struggling. His mother had a serious medical condition and was frequently in the hospital. Steve's father was a recovering alcoholic, newly sober but still unemployed. Steven's older sister had dropped out of school and had her own substance abuse problems. Fortunately, an older brother—and role model for Steven—had graduated from high school and was working in construction.

ACS agreed to provide support for Steven while he transitioned back into the community. He was pessimistic about his future and was concerned that he would end up being homeless. His ACS counselor worked with him on maintaining his sobriety and developing achievable goals. Together they came up with a plan to salvage his school year and then galvanized the school to work with Steven to help him succeed.

As is common for people in recovery, Steven had a small relapse after two months. He confided in his ACS counselor because he trusted their confidential relationship. Luckily, this minor misstep did not shift Steven off course. In the following weeks, he continued to make progress toward his goals—to graduate from high school and pursue substance-free interests, including art classes. 

There are no instant results in helping someone recover from substance abuse. There are many crucial steops along the way that lead to success. Steven will continue to need help and support, but with ACS' timely interventions, Steven's path is much more hopeful.
Steven's story shows what can happen when kids get the services they need when they need them. ACS services give court-involved youth the opportunity to succeed.

*All client names and some identifying details have been changed in order to protect confidentiality