Caz Recovery: A Year in Review

As we approach the end of another remarkable year, we want to take a moment to reflect on some of the incredible stories and achievements of our residents and staff at Caz. It has been a year of growth, resilience, and profound impact, which we could not have done without your support.

Shining a Spotlight on Stories of Recovery

Throughout the year 2023, we’ve had the honor of sharing remarkable stories from residents MarkusAllen, Tanya, Mandi, and Suzanne. Their stories vividly capture the heart and soul of Caz. These inspiring narratives showcase the unwavering strength, resilience, and transformation that individuals can achieve on their path to recovery.

MarkusAllen’s journey to recovery began at Cazenovia Manor, where he courageously faced the chaos in his life and sought help to restart and rebuild. With the support and tools provided by Cazenovia Manor, MarkusAllen not only transformed his own life but also discovered the means to properly care for his son.

Tanya’s recovery journey started in 2012 with her arrival at Caz. Initially joining Visions Place, a former program that addressed co-occurring disorders, Tanya found solace, structure, and mental health support within our community. Tanya redirected her energy toward art, music, personal growth and recovery. Transitioning to Caz’s Housing program was a significant step toward independent living, where she continued to thrive with the support of her fellow residents and staff.

We also had the privilege of conversing with Mandi, whose path to recovery was marked by trials that included foster care, abuse, and addiction. A near-fatal overdose left her fighting for her life and the ability to walk again. However, her incredible resilience and determination guided her to Caz, where she encountered a community defined by compassion and received unwavering support. Mandi’s commitment to her recovery ultimately resulted in the joyous moment when she obtained supervised visitation with her children, a profound testament to the transformative power of embracing life’s second chances.

Finally, Suzanne’s path to recovery was marked by a decade of homelessness and hopelessness. However, her desire to create a better life, especially for her mother, prompted her to seek help at Caz Recovery. Suzanne discovered a renewed sense of purpose and a determination to embrace life fully. These four extraordinary individuals exemplify the essence of Caz Recovery—resilience, transformation, and the unwavering support that empowers individuals on their journey to recovery.

Celebrating the Achievements of Our Team

In 2023, we also had the privilege of witnessing extraordinary achievements within our dedicated team at Caz. This year marked the beginning of a transformative era as we welcomed Lindsay Herndon as our new CEO. Lindsay’s emphasis on Trauma-Informed Care and her commitment to creating progressive, evidence-based programs for individuals in need of support perfectly aligns with Caz’s core mission, vision, and values.

Lindsay’s leadership has been fortified by a team of compassionate professionals who have consistently gone above and beyond in their service to others. Our outstanding nurses like Darcy D’Arcy and Amandeep Rajput have been instrumental in providing exemplary care to our residents. Their dedication to maintaining the well-being of our residents and the implementation of Trauma-Informed Care principles have played a pivotal role in the healing and recovery journeys of those we serve.

Moreover, our Wellness Coordinator, Libby Pfonner, has exhibited unwavering commitment and dedication to creating a nurturing environment that fosters well-being and self-care for both our residents and staff. Libby’s tireless efforts have contributed to building a sense of community and promoting holistic wellness among our team members.

Counselors and Support Service Specialists like Michael Pollina and Denise Latempa exemplify what it means to be a compassionate guide on the path to recovery. Our residential teams are dedicated to supporting residents in overcoming past traumas and achieving their recovery goals. Their commitment to understanding each individual’s unique journey has made a profound impact on the lives of those they serve.

Continuing the Journey Together

As we celebrate the successes of 2023, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for the ongoing dedication of our supporters. Caz wouldn’t be where it is today without the loyalty and generosity of our community. As the year draws to a close, we invite you to consider making a year-end donation to Caz. Your contribution will help us continue to provide life-saving services, empower individuals on their recovery journeys, and create a positive and nurturing environment.

Your support matters, and every donation – no matter the size – makes a difference. Together, we can ensure that 2024 is another year filled with stories of hope, healing, and transformation.