Some of the stories of our past recipients and their childhood trauma that led them to start abusing drugs and alcohol at an early age are really hard to hear. Richie was born into a family of crime and drugs and was using drugs under the age of 10. Richie was in and out of prison for 22 years as an adult, recommitting crime to get back to prison because that was his safe place. A smart Judge finally sent Richie to the Adult & Teen Challenge Program at the age of 52 and that is when his life turned around. He is doing great things now, a christian man spreading the word in homeless camps, prisons, etc. and sharing his testimony and HOPE. His discipleship is everywhere! He also manages (2) Hope Houses in McMinnville for men that have been through rehabilitation, faith based sober living facilities. Richie is currently enrolled in Global University to get his Theology credentials and continue to minister. Watch his testimonial video.
My name is Taylor, and I am proud to share that I have now achieved 7 years of continuous recovery. When I first returned to school in 2020, I faced significant barriers; due to past financial and legal challenges from a decade ago, I no longer qualified for traditional financial aid. I initially began pursuing a one-year accounting certificate, paying for my classes out-of-pocket while working two jobs.After my first term, I realized my true passion was in technology, but I had no idea how I would fund the additional schooling required for a degree. After a long search for support, I was granted a scholarship through the Dickey Educational Endowment (DEE) Fund. This support was the catalyst that allowed me to transition from a certificate program to my chosen field of study.
I am thrilled to announce that I have successfully completed my Associate’s Degree in CIS: Networking & Cyber Security. The DEE scholarship bridged the gap when no other resources were available, empowering me to move from a period of personal hardship toward a career-focused future. I owe a debt of gratitude to the benefactor of the DEE Fund for believing in my potential and providing the foundation for my success. I am determined to ensure that this investment continues to be put to excellent use in my professional career.
I became addicted to drugs and alcohol at the age of 13. After losing my father to alcoholism, I lost control of my ability to cope with life as a teenager.During my high school years, I caused damage to my family, watched as my friends passed away from overdoses and car wrecks, and struggled to stay afloat and out of jail. While I was intervened on several times as a teen, I couldn’t stop. It was the only way I knew how to tolerate the chaos I felt inside of myself.
It wasn’t until I came to a 12-step program with the support of my best friend that I was able to find recovery and sobriety.
Through my recovery journey, I became a certified alcohol and drug counselor (CADC-II) and completed my undergraduate degree at Oregon State University – Cascades. I have been counseling young adults in addiction for 10 years now and recently embarked on a licensing program and a master’s degree in counseling psychology.
The Dickey Educational Endowment helped me get my start in pursuing my master’s degree in the Fall of 2023. I am now a year into the program and have maintained a 4.0 GPA.
I am currently in a practicum site and training as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I feel empowered and encouraged by the support of the Dickey Educational Endowment to continue my pursuit of becoming a licensed therapist and helping others in need.
I recently celebrated 15 years in recovery, which has been a precious gift that so many do not get the chance to experience.