ALAMOSA — On July 10, a one-year anniversary celebration was held at the Hope in the Valley addiction recovery center in Alamosa.  

David Herrera, Community Engagement Coordinator with Hope in the Valley, told the Valley Courier that over one hundred well-wishers attended the event, underscoring the crucial role of community support in the center's success. 

According to the website of the organization, "Hope in the Valley is more than a rehabilitation center; it's a haven built on empathy, understanding and the unwavering belief in the transformative power of recovery... Hope in the Valley stands tall, not just as a rehabilitation center, but as a living testament to the possibility of transformation, a testament that no matter how challenging the journey, Hope can be found, and recovery is within reach." 

During the event, while speaking to the crowd assembled, Alamosa County Sheriff Robert Jackson asked everyone to look at the county jail, which is next to Hope in the Valley, "There are 85 souls in there that can use your help. Years ago, Senator Benett [US Senator Michael Benett] landed at the airport and asked me, 'If you had a magic wand, what would you do?' I said I would create or have someone create a drug rehab facility in the San Luis Valley. we appreciate this whole facility." 

To applause, Jackson said he is celebrating 17 years sober from alcohol.  

Former Valley resident Paul Reed, one of the founders of Hope in the Valley, is a living testament to the transformative power of recovery. For many years, Reed struggled with addiction, but in 2007, he took the courageous step of entering a rehabilitation center. He soon embraced 12-step programs and transitioned his life into sobriety, a journey that has inspired many. His story is a beacon of hope for those still struggling with addiction.   

In sobriety, Reed began helping others in recovery and co-founded Roofers in Recovery, a testament to his commitment to supporting those in need. This initiative assists those working in trades to cope with addiction and recovery. Co-founding Hope in the Valley is another way Reed is giving back to the SLV and helping others, a mission that the center continues to uphold. 

Hope in the Valley can be reached at 719-206-4673 and www.hopeincolorado.org. For information regarding meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous in the San Luis Valley, visit www.slvaa.org.