Grant Awarded to Aid Local Substance Abuse Recovery Program

(L-R Kriss Donovan-Gatrell, Business Development and Carrier Relations at Wabash Communications CO-OP, Cheryl Meyers, Chief Managing Officer at Effingham County Probation, Clint Holkenbrink, Marketing Manager at Wabash Communications CO-OP)

The Discovery to Recovery Outpatient Substance Abuse Program, located in Effingham, has announced that it has been awarded a $5,000 grant from the Foundation for Rural Service (FRS), the philanthropic arm of NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association. This grant will enable the program to enhance its services by providing new equipment to program participants, expanding digital inclusion programming, and improving probation and treatment compliance through the expansion of telehealth alternatives.

The grant from FRS, in conjunction with support from the partnering NTCA member, Wabash Communications CO-OP of Louisville, IL, prioritizes the commitment to fostering community development and supporting essential initiatives in rural America. The $5,000 grant will be instrumental in advancing the efforts of the Discovery to Recovery Outpatient Substance Abuse Program, providing vital resources to individuals in their journey towards recovery.

"We are incredibly grateful to the Foundation for Rural Service and Wabash Communications CO-OP for their support. This grant will have a meaningful impact on the lives of our program participants," said Cheryl Meyers, Chief Managing Officer at Effingham County Probation. "With this funding, we will be able to provide new equipment to our participants, expand digital inclusion initiatives, and enhance our telehealth options, ensuring that our services are accessible and effective in helping individuals overcome substance abuse."

The Discovery to Recovery Outpatient Substance Abuse Program is dedicated to providing comprehensive, evidence-based treatment and support services to individuals struggling with substance abuse. The program's approach focuses on empowering participants, addressing their unique needs, and promoting long-term recovery. The FRS grants, totaling over $105,000, will support various community projects in rural areas served by NTCA members. These initiatives range from enhancing educational resources in schools and libraries to supporting first responders and expanding esports and robotics programs, among others. The combined efforts of FRS and NTCA members aim to improve the quality of life in rural communities across America.