I have been challenged with addiction for 10 years, and have been in and out of outpatient treatment and detox several times – but I would always relapse.
When I arrived at Morning Star, I was at the lowest point in my life. Things were spiraling out of control. My four children had been taken from me and placed in foster care with a family member. And then I learned that I was 5 months pregnant.
I arrived with the worst attitude in the world. I was just so angry all the time. But at Morning Star, I started to reflect and gain clarity. I realized that I was hurt and angry with myself. And that’s when the healing began. Everything had been a fight up to that point. But I had nowhere to run – I had to face my problems.
Morning Star helped save my life. They never gave up on me.
Every interaction with my counselor and every staff member helped prepare me to re-enter the world clean and ready to thrive.
I attended treatment 5 days a week, attended a medical assistant program, and became certified in a workforce development program for nontraditional roles for women. And I learned that I am worth it! From now on, I show up, set up, and remain teachable.
When my baby, Liliana, was born, I can’t express how much the onsite child care at Morning Star II helped in my recovery. It made it possible for me to go to treatment, attend school, and focus on me. The structure kept me accountable for being a parent and prepared e for the real world.
I knew I was finally on a path to a better life when I left Morning Star. The court saw the improvements in me, too, and my children came back home to me. I never thought that would happen. Today, thanks to Morning Star, I have a home and my family lives under one roof.
I still visit the program to let them know of my progress. My goal is to be fully self-supported. I know there will be obstacles ahead of me. But I am prepared to take it one day at a time.
Craig Treiber says supporting SCO is in his DNA. That’s because the Treiber ties to the organization go back three generations.
Craig’s grandfather, John, was actively involved at Queens’ Ottilie Orphan Asylum, which would merge with the St. Christopher Home to become SCO. Craig’s father, Howard, was Board President. Craig’s mother, Hope, deepened the family’s tradition of philanthropy.
Craig joined the board in 1999. He’s not the type to talk about his generosity, but Craig’s quiet commitment is unshakeable. Each year, he and his wife Lora are among SCO’s top donors and volunteers.
“My family has been very blessed to have a successful business over a number of generations,” says Craig, “and giving back was essential in our upbringing. If you’re fortunate enough to have your health and acquire some financial means, it’s important to give back. There’s tremendous need, and my family is honored to support organizations that make a real difference.”
The Treibers’ support has long underwritten SCO’s efforts, but Craig commits his time too – overseeing Risk Management, serving as Vice Chair and Executive O_cer of the Board. “We have a family foundation, and our giving goes well beyond SCO, but there’s a difference. Writing a check is one thing. but to invest your energy, to have skin in the game is what is important. The diversity and impact of the services provided make me proud to support the organization.”
"The diversity and impact of the services provided make me proud to support the organization.” Learn More
We shelter
4,600
youth, adults and children
Last year, we placed
1,470
youth in employment, subsidized employment or internships