Lifeworks CEO and 2016 Freedom Award Winner Mary Monnat’s successful career in recovery and her journey to overcome alcoholism started in the early days of De Paul Treatment, now called Fora Health.
“I was a 22-year-old kid on my way to law school who knew in her heart that wasn’t her path. So, I took a chance and set out to save the world at this amazing place called the De Paul Treatment Center. Instead, De Paul saved me!”
Mary started her orientation to be a volunteer, and she began to reflect on her relationship with alcohol. As she sat through different lectures and groups, Mary realized alcoholism and addiction had been in her family since she was a little girl. Most importantly – she realized that she had an alcohol use disorder. Mary challenged herself to reduce her alcohol intake and found a sponsor to support her new life of sobriety.
“I was no longer alone with my secrets. I found recovery at De Paul and a new way of being in the world.”
Mary was impressed with the counselors and De Paul’s innovative approach — which inspired her to stay in the field. De Paul hired her for an entry-level job in recreation and support. She helped patients sign up for welfare and took them on hikes in the gorge. As she continued, she was able to be a part of major initiatives at De Paul – a women’s treatment program.
“They were so open to new ideas and experimenting. I wanted to start a women’s group, and De Paul was very supportive. So, I started the first women’s program with another counselor. By the time I left, 30% of De Paul’s patients were women receiving care.”
Today, Mary is the CEO of Lifeworks NW – a position she’s held since 1998. She and her husband (a fellow employee at De Paul) have built a life far exceeding anything she thought possible.
When you support Fora, you support future leaders and community members like Mary, who will cherish each new day! Join us today with a gift: https://forahealth.org/donate/
“De Paul gave me my freedom and set me on a path to a fulfilling future. I will be ever grateful for that.”
