The Newest Member of the WNL Team!

We’re thrilled to welcome Karen to the Welcome to a New Life team! Many of you may already know her from her inspiring journey with WNL—first as a mentee, then as a mentor, and now as a valued member of our staff as our new Mentee Advocacy Coordinator. Karen brings a wealth of lived experience, strong recovery roots, and professional expertise that will greatly benefit our mentees. She holds her CDCA certification, is pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice, and has a professional background in case management and behavioral health. In addition to her work with us, Karen volunteers weekly at the Hancock County Jail and brings a deep understanding of WNL’s mission and the mentor/mentee experience. We’re so excited to have her on board!

"When I first joined WNL as a mentee, I had no idea just how much this program would impact my life. What started as a search for guidance quickly turned into a journey of self-discovery, growth, and empowerment. Through the mentorship, resources, and genuine care that WNL provides, I found not only direction but also a community that believed in me every step of the way. Between fighting addiction, navigating the court system, or fighting cancer, they never let me face anything alone. As I grew within the program, the opportunity to become a mentor myself was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve ever had. Being able to give back to encourage and support others the same way I was once supported deepened my appreciation for what WNL stands for: connection, empowerment, and the belief that we rise by lifting others. Today, as an employee, I’m proud to contribute to a mission that continues to transform lives. WNL is more than a program, it’s a family that nurtures potential, celebrates growth, and inspires everyone it touches to become the best version of themselves. I wholeheartedly believe in the vision and values of WNL, and I’m grateful every day to be part of something so powerful and purpose-driven."

-Karen

Interested in becoming a mentor?
Visit our website to learn about what it means to be a mentor with Welcome to a New Life!

We were so thankful to participate in this years Marathon Petroleum Corporation Nonprofit Fair. It was an amazing day and we are especially grateful for some employees/retirees WNL board members Nicole Burgy and Ryan Korkos and mentors Vince Lichtinger, Don Snyder and Tarrance Reed for sharing their involvement with WNL. You are truly making an impact in our community and we appreciate you.

We are proud to announce that Welcome to a New Life has been officially designated as an Ohio Recovery Friendly Workplace. This recognition highlights our commitment to supporting employees who may be impacted by substance use disorders or mental health challenges. We are honored to join a growing number of businesses and organizations across Ohio dedicated to creating healthier, more resilient workplaces.

Our Commitment to Recovery
At WNL, we recognize that substance use disorders and mental health challenges can impact anyone, and we are dedicated to being part of the solution. By sharing information on substance use disorder and mental health, resources, we are fostering a work environment where everyone can succeed.

Looking Ahead
We are excited to continue our journey as an Ohio Recovery Friendly Workplace. In the coming months, we will be implementing more training and wellness initiatives for our staff and engaging with the broader community. Together, we can create a workplace culture that empowers individuals to thrive in both their personal and professional lives.

For more information about the Ohio Recovery Friendly Workplace initiative, visit the website at recoveryfriendlyworkplace.mha.ohio.gov.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES