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New StepUP Counselors: Meet Thenedra and Shane

THENEDRA R.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.Thenedra as a kid with a bunny cake, then as an adult with the same type of cake.

My name is Thenedra Roots. I studied human services in college for two years in Austin, MN, then took three years off to travel the country. When I returned, I graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors of Science in alcohol and drug counseling.

What are some of your passions?

I love traveling, I want to travel the world. I want to go to Africa and see the elephants. I love high end restaurants, I love hole in the wall restaurants, I love all different kinds food. My winter activity is crocheting, I’m getting excited to get some yarn and crochet this winter. Also, I love people. You could say I’m a social butterfly. Part of the reason I want to be in this field is because of the people; everyone has such an interesting life and an interesting story.

What kind of music do you like?

I truly do like all music. I could be in my car listening to The Current one minute, then classical music, then I could be jamming out to Kanye West; it just depends on my mood. Usually when I’m driving home from work I like rap music, and on the way to work I’ll listen to classical music.

Why did you choose this field?

I was born into an alcoholic and addict family. I have several family members in active use and it has greatly affected me throughout my life. So that is how I developed an interest in this field and in recovery.

What’s your favorite part of working at StepUP so far?

My favorite part has been meeting all of the students and working with students who are very motivated in their recovery. It’s been fun getting to know people. It’s really cool that when my door is open, people will just come in and talk with me. I still get amazed every time I hear someone say they’ve been sober for consecutive years. Seeing people live their lives of recovery; that’s what I love about this environment.

What are you looking forward to about working here?

I’m excited for the Gala and to see what that’s about. I’m also looking forward to  learning how every semester is different, and how my job changes as the semesters change. I’m excited to start going out and telling others about StepUP, and spreading the word about the program.

Anything Else?

I’ve appreciated everyone that’s come into my office and introduced themselves. I’ve appreciated everyone that has taken the time to get to know me, and allowed me to get to know them. It’s made this transition really easy.


SHANE J.

Shane J. with his daughter on a snowy trail in the woods.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I’m Shane Jensen. I’m from Vermillion, South Dakota. I went to school in Mankato, where I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Then I fulfilled my internship and began working as a counselor out at  Wilderness Treatment Center in Montana.

What are some of your passions?

Anything outdoors, I absolutely love the outdoors; that’s what I’m all about. A huge part of my spirituality is being outdoors and being in nature; hunting, fishing, hiking, boating, canoeing, etc. Living in Montana, there’s obviously a lot of outdoor pursuits out there, which I miss dearly, given all the mountains, lakes, and wilderness. I enjoy anything outdoors, anything hands on, and anything that keeps me active.

What kind of music do you like?

I would say one of my favorite bands is the John Butler Trio, but I like basically any kind of music. I can usually find the positive in most kinds of music.

Why did you leave Montana?

I loved Montana, I still love it, but family takes priority now. My wife is from the Twin Cities area and having our kids closer to family is important. We have a Daughter (Edith) who is 20 months and a Son (Everett) who is 6 weeks old.

Why did you choose this field?

I was going to school for Psychology. I didn’t know what I wanted to do with it at first. I did an internship, and started working with young people in very early recovery. It was awesome to watch the change happen. It was very rewarding to see what recovery has to offer young people.

What’s your favorite part of working at StepUP so far?

My favorite part has been seeing young people that are living a life of recovery, experiencing the promises, and contributing to society. It’s been really rewarding meeting young people that have years of sobriety as opposed to kids that really only have a couple months. It’s really cool to see young people in recovery giving back.

What are you looking forward to about working here?

Helping young people in recovery see more of the solution, what leads to a fulfilling life, and what leads to them feeling good about their life.  There also seems to be freedom in my position to run with whatever I am passionate about and that is really exciting.

Anything else?

I’m open to talking to and working with anyone. There’ve been a couple people that have trickled in this week who asked if I’d be open to working with them, and the answer is yes, I’m open to working with anyone. I enjoy learning through the experiences of others and hope to do some teaching through those interactions as well.

9 Things To Do This Fall

          September 22nd officially marked the first day of fall. I’ve always loved the cool air, changing leaves, and pumpkin spice lattes that come along after summer ends. Many of us know, the transition to autumn means the blistering cold and snowstorms of winter are not far behind. I took some time to make a list of things that we canTall tree with orange leaves. all do to celebrate fall and enjoy the beautiful weather before it’s too cold to be outside. Some items that made the list are traditional fall activities, but I tried to incorporate some activities in the area that maybe you’ve never heard of, to encourage new experiences. If you ever find yourself not studying for tests, reading textbooks, or writing papers, you may find yourself wanting to participate in one of the following fall festivities. Here’s nine things you should do this fall:

1. Scarecrows in the Garden. 

September 16th through October 31st, Minnesota’s Arboretum places hand-crafted scarecrows, by experts from Bachman’s and the Arboretum’s staff, throughout their fall displays. I might label it something of a “Scarecrow Art Gallery.” There are more scarecrows made by visitors and staff surrounding a pumpkin house decorated for the season. A few blocks away, there is also a sculpture garden that you could check out. The Arboretum’s website has all the information you need on the event.

2. Renaissance Festival.

The Minnesota Renaissance Festival is a long-standing tradition in Minnesota, this being it’s 46th year. The live armored jousting, 7 themed weekends, 16 stages of live entertainment, 250 artisan booths, food fit for a king, mermaids, fairies, and more, attracts an annual crowd of over 300,000. It’s open through October 2nd; which is this coming weekend.

3. Fall Leaves.

Everything green is soon going to be all different shades of red, yellow and orange. People come to Minnesota from all over the country to see the changing autumn leaves. We have tons of walking trails, state parks, and waterfall locations that are perfect for experiencing the transition of the trees. Minnehaha Falls would be my go-to spot, living in Minneapolis and all, but some other places in the area I would recommend are Shadow Falls Park, Witch’s Hat Tower, and a trail in Minneapolis called “Quaking Bog.” Also, here are some places to check out that are a little farther drive; Lebanon Hills Regional Park, Taylors Falls, and Willow River Falls.

4. Bake.

It’s the season of apple pies,  banana bread,  caramel apples, and pumpkin everything! Pumpkin pie, cookies, bread, lattes… You could bake with your family, bake alone and share with your friends, bake with your friends and share with the beautiful people that work in the StepUP office, etc., etc.

5. Apple Orchard.IPhone taking a picture of fall leaves.

Fall is apple season, and there is no better apple than an apple fresh from the orchard. In my experience, apples from the orchard are bigger and tastier, and there is a huge selection of apples you may have never even heard of. I grew up in Lindstrom, and one I always went to was the Pleasant Valley Orchard. A Minneapolis website put together a list of apple orchards near Minneapolis.

6. Pumpkin patch.

Pumpkins are the mascot of fall, and going to a pumpkin patch is a tradition you don’t want to miss. Picking out your pumpkin, decorating it, carving it; it’s all a part of the spirit of autumn. There’s also a matching list the pumpkin patches near Minneapolis.

7. Football.

We do have that new U.S. Bank Stadium you could go catch a Vikings game at. Although, I heard tickets are super expensive so it might be cheaper to order food and watch the game at home. Also, Augsburg’s football season runs through November. You could attend a game to show school spirit and watch some football. The Auggie’s football schedule and stats can be viewed on the Augsburg Athletic’s website.

8. Stock up on sweaters.

It’s time to put the bro tanks and crop tops away; it’s sweater season. Sweaters are quite literally the perfect outdoor fall attire, while simultaneously being the perfect indoor winter attire. You could go pay full price for a nice sweater, or you could do what I do and go thrifting. For some reason, thrift shops always have the biggest, comfiest sweaters. Don’t wait too long to update your fall wardrobe, all the good ones might be gone!

Close up on several pumpkins.9. Haunted House.

It is a little early for Halloween, but it’s never too early to pay for people to scare you. Minnesota has tons of attractions that do just that. The Soap Factory’s haunted basement starts September 30th and runs through Halloween night. It’s in downtown Minneapolis and I’ve heard it’s the best haunted attraction in Minnesota. Some others include Valleyscare, Pine Haven’s Haunted Hayride, Trail of Terror, and Fright Farm.

 

-Connie K.

 

September is National Recovery Month!

          It’s Recovery Month! As defined by SAMHSA, “National Recovery Month (Recovery Month) is a national observance held every September to educate Americans that substance use treatment and mental health services can enable those with a mental and/or substance use disorder to live a healthy and rewarding life.”

Caleb K. speaking at National Recovery Month's spirituality breakfast. Photo by Ricky T.
Caleb K. speaking at National Recovery Month’s spirituality breakfast. Photo by Ricky T.

          This week, I reached out to students in the StepUP community to uncover different perspectives of what recovery means to different people. We have a lot of amazing students in our community with amazing stories, and it was a good opportunity to learn more about some of my classmates. Here is what the community had to say:

          “Recovery, to me, is an essential part of my life; I strongly believe I would be dead without it. Recovery means becoming close with fellows and becoming a part of a family you will never forget. Recovery most of the time looks like love, serenity, and freedom. Although I do have my bad days, I would never trade what I have today for anything.” -Emma S.

          “Recovery, to me, is being able to participate and be a role model in society. It means living a spiritual life and adhering to my buddhist vows. It’s also not relying on any external sources for my happiness; like people, drugs, or grades.”-Kaleb N.

          “The healing gift of hugging my grandparents without feeling like a fraud; the quiet joy of sharing a genuine smile with a passing stranger; this deep stillness in an ever-turbulent world– how could I truly say what recovery has done for me?” -Chad B.

          “Recovery to me is not just being sober. It is bettering myself and improving my self awareness. I also see recovery as being a part of a bigger picture in life, and I need to be of service to that larger picture as best I can. Under the watch of my Higher Power I need to be helpful, insightful, loving, and understanding to and of all other things in my life, so I can live life happy and on life’s terms.” -Matt K.

No one should have to choose between recovery and a college education.
Patrice S.’s (Program Director) quote about recovery.

          “When I first got sober, I liked to think of recovery in the most literally sense of the word.  I am living in a such a way where I am recovering from this disease of alcoholism that I have.  Recovery isn’t about just stopping the use of drugs and/or alcohol.  I realized very quickly after I got sober that even when I am not drinking, I am still a very sick individual. Until, that is, I applied the principles of AA into my life.  The biggest thing recovery has done for me is giving me a completely different perspective and outlook on life.  Before I got sober, my life was very black and white, I always had an excuse for everything, and it was always someone else’s fault.  I never took responsibility for anything in my life.  If something bad happened it was quite literally the end of the world.  Today, I have the ability to be less reactionary to the things that life throws at me. I have the ability to take a step back, assess, and make rational judgments and then actions for what I am experiencing in that moment. Recovery has also given me the ability to show up in life.  As a daughter, sister, friend, girlfriend, student, employee, etc.,  I no longer feel the need to hide from life, but enjoy being a functional member of society.  I have been sober for almost five years, and my recovery is definitely not perfect and has ebbed and flowed.  When I am working a program, it is going to meetings, working with my sponsor, being of service, and showing up in other aspects of my life that don’t fall into the category of recovery.” -Elle A.  

          “Recovery, to me, is getting a second chance at life. I feel like a child trying to figure out who I am; what I enjoy and what I don’t. Recovery is trying new things and getting out of my comfort zone, failing and learning from my mistakes. It’s about bettering my mind, body, and soul. Recovery is about safety, it’s about love, it’s about giving back to what was so freely given to me. Recovery to me is living each and every day with grace and dignity. It’s about leaving this world a better place.” -Kate E.

“What recovery is to me is so much more than just solving a substance abuse problem.  It’s solving a living problem.  Being in recovery has given me the opportunity to evolve into the person I always wanted to be.  It has allowed me to express gratitude for everything my loved ones have done for me, and I’m blessed to be able to reciprocate that and show up in their lives when called upon.  Most of all, recovery has allowed me to be a son, a brother, an uncle, and a friend again.” -John M.

          “My addiction crippled my life. Everything that I knew was revolved around using. I lost myself. Recovery has helped me find myself. I took my greatest weakness and made it my greatest strength. Recovering has taught me that I am so much more than an addict and that if I can recover from drugs, that I can do anything. I am currently a Junior at Augsburg College, studying clinical psychology. I want to spend the rest of my life helping people who are suffering like I did. I have learned that I am never alone. I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the people I have met in recovery. They have helped me save my own life. Recovery has given me purpose and a reason to live, and for that, I am forever grateful.” -Neil K.

          “When people ask me if I am in recovery, of course, I answer the question without hesitation and with confidence. However, it is not that black and white for me. Answering that question with a simple ‘yes’ does not rightly and accurately describe what that means to me. When I hear the word ‘recovery,’ it tickles something deep down inside of me in which I am passionate about, and words will never meticulously depict the magnitude of how imperative it is my daily life.

          Recovery is not just abstaining from drugs and alcohol, I would call that surviving. Personally, I strive to thrive in my recovery, which is so much more than just abstaining, and in my opinion I thrive in recovery every single day. Recovery touches every aspect to my life. However, it does not define me. Being in recovery allows me to be the best version of myself, and that is what I expect.

          Since making the most vital, life-changing decision I have ever made at 18 years of age, my life is nothing that I thought it would be. In fact, it is indescribable. Firstly, I have the freedom to be me. Secondly, I am able to be the absolute best son, friend, brother, cousin, role model, and student I am able to be.

          Because I am sober and in recovery, I have found hobbies and activities in my life that I would not have found if I was still using. For example, I have fallen in love with yoga. Yoga allows me to calm my mind and truly be in consciousness, and be not only physically present for my life, but also mentally and spiritually present. Also, I enjoy physical fitness, such as working out, running, obstacle races. Physical fitness pushes me to places that I hav
e never gone before mentally. The mind is incredible, but is like a muscle and it takes practice and practice mastering it.

          Recovery fills me with love, truth, kindness, affection, and some more love.” -Jordan L.

Sara M. sharing her experience with spirituality at the spirituality breakfast. Photo by Ricky T.
Sara M. sharing her experience with spirituality at the spirituality breakfast. Photo by Ricky T.

          “One night when I was a little girl, long before my addiction and depression took over, I remember praying that one day I could have a close relationship with God. I prayed that I wouldn’t go my whole life putting off having a relationship with my higher power. As a 20-year-old college student in recovery, I reflect on that night often. I was probably in elementary school when I made that prayer; it was the purest, most genuine thought I could have had at the time. I sometimes feel like my whole life after that was God answering that prayer. If I didn’t go through the terrible times my use and depression caused me, I wouldn’t feel the overwhelming gratitude for the little things today. I never would have been in recovery, which ultimately led me to a relationship with God that I could never be more grateful for. I would be completely lost in this world without recovery. It has taught me how to live, it has taught me how to love people, and it has taught me how to love myself.” -Connie K.

          “Recovery means being better than I was.” -Caleb K.

 

-Connie K.

 

Sober Things to do This Fourth of July

         

          It’s time to make some new, sober traditions for the holidays. The fourth of July can be hard, but keeping busy is sure to make the day go by smoothly. If you don’t have plans yet, here is a good list of things you can do to keep your fourth eventful, exciting, and sober.

1. Spend the day at the beach.

Bring food, friends, and sunscreen. Soak in the vitamin D. Get a group together to play beach volleyball, or throw a frisbee with a friend. As of right now, the weather report forA beach with clear water. July 4th is sunny and 85 degrees; a perfect beach day. Some beaches in the areas have rentals, so renting a kayak or paddleboat could be really fun. Some beaches in the area include Lake Calhoun North Beach, Cedar Lake East Beach, and Lake Nokomis Main Beach; if you type them in on Google Maps it will give you an address.

2. Try a more adventurous water activity.

Going to the beach is a very calming activity, but if you’ve had a few energy drinks and you feel like driving a little further, you could do something more entertaining. Get a group of friends and go to the quarries in St. Cloud; a place with cliffs and a lake where you can safely go cliff jumping.

3. Red, White, and Boom.

Red, White and Boom is a celebration hosted by the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. It is free and open to the public. There is live music, family activities, and food from 6pm-10pm. There’s three different places where there will be live music; Mill Ruins Park, Boom Island Park, and Father Hennepin Bluff Park. For those of you who don’t know, these are all on either side of the Stone Arch Bridge. Each year the celebration ends with fireworks at 10pm, which will be very visible from the Stone Arch.

Children and adults, roadside, wearing red, white, and blue.
4. 4th in The Park.

4th in The Park is the only Fourth of July parade in St. Paul and one of the longest running parades in Minnesota. Enjoy the colorful parade and stake out a patch of grass to enjoy an afternoon of music and games. Most of the events are at Luther Place or the Langford Park Recreation Center. If you’re interested, check out the schedule for the day and more information about the event

5. Attend a parade in the suburbs.

If you will be out of Minneapolis, or want to get out of Minneapolis this fourth, there is a long list of suburbs that have events going on as well. Cities all around the twin cities are having their own firework display, parade, and festivals. A twin cities website has a list of cities, information, and times for the events

6. Check out the MNYPAA event this Saturday, July 2nd.

MNYPAA is hosting a summer cookout for young people in recovery this weekend! If you are busy on the 4th, this event could possibly make up for it. There will be food and games; volleyball, basketball, frisbee, giant jenga, bean bags, and more! There will also be a meeting at 7:30 along with a raffle and prizes. The event is from 5pm-9pm at Riverside Park (2700 S 8th St).

7. Go to Valleyfair!

Open 10am-11pm thisThe top of a ride at Valleyfair. Fourth of July. You can get coupons on admission tickets at Cub or Taco Bell; and the prices are also discounted after 4pm. I hadn’t been to Valleyfair in years until recently; I went with a group of sober friends and had a super fun time walking around and being terrified of all the rides. If you go, make sure you bring an even number so no one has to ride the rides alone. Also, they aregoing to end the night with fireworks this July 4th, starting at 9:50pm.

8. Stop by Como Zoo.

Como Zoo is free and open everyday of the year from 10am – 6pm. It’s not too far from campus and I know as a college student I love to do things that are free. They have a lot of animals and also some rides. If you have a younger sibling or cousin or something like that, you could take them. It always makes me smile to see kids enjoying their time, and they would love it! You might, too.

Large bonfire on the beach.9. Have a bonfire.

Music, friends, s’mores… A bonfire is the perfect end to your fourth of July. Since you can’t have a fire on campus, having a friend in the area would be the perfect amenity in this instant. I’ve looked long and hard online to find public bonfire pits in Minneapolis with very little results. It looks light there might be some at Minnehaha Falls, but that is not for sure. I found a ton in St. Paul, though, which isn’t too far. Como Regional Park, Crosby Farm Regional Park, Hidden Falls Regional Park, Highland Park, Newell Park, and Phalen Regional Park are some of the ones I came up with. Just bring your own firewood and chairs!

10. FIREWORKS.

Is it really July 4th if you don’tSeveral fireworks in the night sky. watch a fireworks show? The “Red, White, and Boom” festival that I mentioned earlier is having a fireworks show at 10pm. They are getting shot off from Water Power Park, and will be visible all along the Mississippi River. Popular places to view this show are from the Stone Arch Bridge, Boom Island Park, Gold Medal Park, The Guthrie, Powderhorn Park, Lake Calhoun or any place along the river. St. Paul will have a display following the Saints Game, which will be visible from the CHS Field.

          I hope I gave you a few ideas that could help make your fourth of July fun and sober. If you’re starting to feel a little uneasy, you know you can always find a meeting pretty much any time of day on the intergroup websiteHave a happy fourth everyone!

 

-Connie K.

 

StepUP Thanksgiving 2015

Students of StepUP enjoying a Thanksgiving meal.This past Sunday one could not escape the smells of thanksgiving. The StepUP community came together as a family to throw their annual thanksgiving dinner serving over 80 pounds of turkey feeding nearly 80 students, friends, and alumni.  As you can see pictured on the right it was a sit down all you can eat buffet with soft jazz music playing in the background.

This is my second year in StepUP and decided to take on this thanksgiving event as a project for my project management class.  I was very excited to start organizing this event but time flew by and I entered this past weekend feeling unprepared and worrisome.  I of course had forgot where I was.

I was in StepUP, a place where everyone is always looking out for others and are always lending a hand.  My fellow StepUP students kept asking how they could be of service and they really wanted to help, they were consistent.  One student would get done with one dish and then help another struggling with a dish.  It was incredible to see so many students helping in any way they could.

For dinner the community whipped up a huge variety of dishes.  We had a vegetarian option, sweet potatoes topped with marshmallows, pigs in a blanket, and a delicious brussels sprout casserole.  The flat we had the event in was packed filling every available chair.  There was such a high level of energy as students started lining up to eat and continued throughout the meal.

My favorite part of the meal was the cleanup.  Another detail of the project I was worried about beforehand.  I was worried people would fill their stomachs and then need to nap, but that was not the case.  When it was time for cleanup everyone jumped onto their feet and got to work.  We had the entire flat cleaned in less than half an hour.

This community is incredible and I love them all.  This event was a success because of the people that attended because they are the ones that made it possible, did the cooking, and even cleaned up the mess.   I am so proud of this community and so grateful to be a part of it.  Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

 

-Blake Halvorson

 

 

 

 

 

StepUP in Memphis

Ricky T. and Glen G. smiling together.The school week can be difficult when you spend the weekend before visiting friends out of state.  Well that is exactly what I did along with a few other StepUP students a couple of weekend ago.

A few months ago Augsburg College sent a handful of students along with a few StepUP students down the Mississippi river in canoes with a few guides, teachers, and full class load.  Their adventure has previously been covered by StepUP blogs and by multiple different news outlets.  They arrived in St. Louis, Missouri this weekend and a few of us decided to drive on down and visit them.  The drive only took us 10 hours compared to their over two month journey on the river to St. Louis.

Collins N. kissing Glen G. on the cheek.We left early Friday morning and met up late Friday afternoon with the Augsburg river crew at a hostel located in St. Louis, Missouri.  We had a member with us that jumped out of the vehicle into the arms of her significant other when arriving.  It was well worth the drive to see that moment.  We then ate a late lunch with the crew and packed up the truck helping transport a lot of the river crew’s luggage and we were off to Memphis.

We arrived in Memphis late Friday evening with an appetite for barbeque so we headed to Americas most iconic street, Beale Street.  There was five of us all part of the StepUP program eating large portions of barbeque and enjoying life.

The next day we started exploring early and filled our day with activities.  We started the day at the Peabody hotel and watched a duck master that trains ducks to march down an elevator, along red carpet, and into a fountain.  We then headed into the city exploring.

Photo of chicken wings and bread rolls.We met up with the rest of the river crew and had a fantastic dinner with the best buffalo wings I have ever had, and others would agree.  We sat outside listening to blues eating wings having the time of our lives until we ran out of food unfortunately.  After we cleaned our fingers and faces we headed back to the hostel where the river crew was staying.

That night we headed to a part of town that was very similar to Minneapolis’s uptown.  It was a very beautiful part of the city filled with places to eat and listen to music.  After exploring we chose a spot and danced the evening to a very entertaining local band.  A lot of dance moves had been busted before the night was up.

The next morning we woke up earlier than one would expect after a late night of dancing and said our farewells over coffee.  Before leaving the city we stopped at the Lorraine Motel where Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated.  Afterwards we drove by the Graceland mansion and were on our way back to Minnesota.

Nick playing guitar in a guitar store.It was a quick adventure but we sure did jam pack it with activities.  Being the driver I was exhausted the entire following week but realized that years from now I will not remember the exhaustion, but will remember the memories I created with my dear friends that impulsive and great weekend

 

Semester on the River

Ricky T. showing off his go pro.
Ricky with his GoPRO.

This fall semester fourteen Augsburg students will be paddling their way 1,000 miles down the Mississippi River in large canoes in less than a four month period.  The students will be taking a full course load while experiencing a once in a lifetime adventure.  The trip will kick off September 1st right here in Minneapolis.

The Augsburg River semester has already caught a lot of attention and has been featured in multiple different media outlets; Bring Me The News, StarTribune, MPR, and Augsburg College.

The exciting part is that StepUP has three students participating in this adventure.  Pictured to the right is Izzie S., Glen G., and Ricky T.  I was able to sit down with all three to hear the excitement and hopes they have for their semester on the river.

Glen G. will be taking 16 credits while on the river which includes an Advanced Drawing class, two environmental sciences, and a political science class.  When asked why he jumped at the chance to spend almost four months on the river he said, “I hope to help with the contemplation I have for my future plans and to grow my spiritual connection to the good outdoors”.  He is also really looking forward to stopping in New Orleans, one of the many stops along the river.

Then there is Izzie S. who has a passion for the outdoors and hopes to gain new friends, better team building experience, a more thorough knowledge of this country

Izzie S. rowing on a river.
Izzie S.

geographically and historically, amazing memories, and some killer additions to her resume.  She said yes to this adventure without any hesitation.  She said, “I’m looking forward to getting really buff arms, having thanksgiving in New Orleans, and to have a story to tell for the rest of my life”.

Ricky T., who is taking a few independent studies while on the river has always had a deep connection with the wilderness.  When he heard Augsburg was looking for a videographer he jumped on board.  Ricky loves to be behind the lens of either the GoPro donated by the StepUP program to capture this journey or his own camera.  Ricky, in his own words, is “Ultra involved” in the trip and is helping out with the technology on the river while capturing this once in a lifetime experience so he can relive it and hold on to this journey after it has come and gone.  When asked what he was hoping to get out of the trip he said, “To find peace and serenity, to continue my personal growth and build character”.  He is excited to see the change that comes out of this event.

Ricky has also created a documentary project called “Learning to Listen : A Semester on the River”.  Where he interviewed some of the students participating in the river trip.  At this time he is accepting donations to help with the cost of more equipment to capture the river journey.

An entire semester of college on a river is something I have never heard of until now.  I am very excited for the return of these students to be able to hear the stories and experiences they had.  It will be a memorable adventure for the three of them.  I am looking forward to Ricky’s project capturing this experience. Ricky told me adversity builds character and so I am very excited to see the character change in my friends from this summer compared to when they come back to Minnesota.

Glen G. and Ricky T. hugging eachother.
Glen G. & Ricky T.

 

-Blake Halvorson

 

Gratitude, in all aspects

For this week’s blog posting, I decided to write about what I am doing on a semi-daily basis at the offices of the StepUP program. Perhaps it is laziness that I have decided to write about myself, that is certainly an argument to make. But more so, I think, it is so that I may take a moment and express gratitude for the opportunity to do the work I do.

 

When Patrice contacted me at the end of the school year to pitch the idea my way I was expecting that my job as a student worker would be about seven hours a week and consist of me doing clerical duties to be imagined by someone who has no experience working in an office. Certainly this conjured job description comes from a mind that never would have expected to be working in such a place at all. Regardless, I was more than shocked when she called me to pitch me the idea she had for StepUP’s upcoming Gala event. She said I would have to come see her to know the details but that the job would be 20 hours a week and utilize skills that she figured I could manage given the trajectory I envision my life taking. The skills required for the position would be a certain amount of personability and charisma (because in large part the project would consist of outreach), the ability to put together a moving slideshow, and to integrate photography. I knew that on some level I was good with people but the thought of the last two made me think that perhaps she should find someone else for the position. This is not to downplay my love of photography or of multimedia constructions but simply to illustrate that my level of experience with either of them, in a competitive job market, probably wouldn’t warrant me any kind of responsibility. Nevertheless, I didn’t question the choice because I felt a confidence and excitement stir in me at the mere idea of the task.

 

I went into the office to talk with her. Her idea seemed simple enough, to reach out to our Alumni and gather quotable experiences, take a portrait, then compile it all into a complete piece that would run independently during the time leading up to the main events at this year’s Gala. It was a slideshow, pretty much. I began visualizing and came up with a very primitive, malleable, yet promising idea for what it could look like. She liked it. And, members of the board liked it as well. They liked it well enough to agree to stipend me while I worked on it, which excited me as well. I won’t lie and say that I wasn’t elated for the chance to learn skills related to my field of study that I hoped would ultimately help my craft, to put my name on something, and get paid while doing it. I wish I could say that my intentions were nobler than that but I can’t do that in good conscious. I thought the idea was right and true and aligned with my program of spirituality, which I was grateful for but it didn’t go further than that. To be fair to myself, I never could have expected the end result and its affects on me but it didn’t stop me from imagining my success either.

 

What began happening is something I never could have accounted for. I began to receive (sometimes maddeningly slowly) stories from people who have gone before me. While contacting these people I operated under the basic connection that we all shared and simply asked them questions about their experience. When I started reading these answers to, in hindsight, very basic questions, I saw a bit of myself in all of them. I could’ve guessed that this would happen, but I never could’ve guessed how it would make me feel. As the emails trickled in, I began to be reaffirmed. Now, some days were worse than others and working through that little rough patch where there wasn’t much more to do than twiddle my thumbs, gave me insights as well, but as the project unfolded I was forced to look at my own story more and more. This is where the gratitude began to emerge.

 

I don’t know why gratitude gets lost on me so easily but as I think about where my life has taken me today I can’t help but feel as though there is something greater at work. Seeing the through lines, the synthesis, the connection of all these stories makes me feel as though what I am doing is aligned with a greater good. I know that there is a risk of me sounding like an egoist even as I am writing but I want to assure all who have taken the time to read these ramblings that it is truly just an expression. This blog post is truly and merely an expression of unending thankfulness to whatever powers are at work that would allow a miscreant like me to work on something that has a resonance that I can’t even begin to understand. That is why I marvel at the coincidence that the theme of this project and of this year’s Gala is gratitude. It is perfect enough to be considered design, but when I thought of my last question to ask the Alumni, “What are you grateful for today” I never thought that the connections to our larger goal would be as significant as they are. I’ve come to realize that these connections also make their way into my life.

 

I am not done with this project. That is something I would like to be clear on, but at this stage in its workings I am noticing something special happening. It’s hard to put a finger on it. All I can say at this point is thank you.  Thank you to those who have contributed thus far.  I would appreciate your help in spreading the word to other alums of this project in the making.

Thank you for my chance to be apart of something truly greater than me. That is, in all aspects.

By: Mitch Ross

Setting the Stage for Collegiate Recovery in Reno, Nevada

Written By: Mitch R

 

A couple weeks ago, two StepUP alumni Joey J. and Gabe S., along with StepUP Director Patrice Salmeri and StepUP Assistant Director Scott Washburn, departed from Minnesota to head to Reno, Nevada to attend the 6th National Collegiate Recovery Conference. It became a site where established and emerging Collegiate Recovery Communities and Programs (CRP) staff and students gathered to educate and learn, connect and relate, and to share stories of their victories and of their struggles.

Several StepUP students smiling.

In her welcome address to the conference attendees, Patrice Salmeri, the President of the Association of Recovery in Higher Education stated, “No one should have to choose between recovery and a college degree.” This was the premise of the conference and everything that occurred during the three days.

Gabe, in cohort with Scott Washburn, aided Mr. Washburn in presenting his research “CRP Alumni perspectives on Life and Recovery after College”, for his dissertation which involves studying students transitioning from collegiate recovery back into the “real world.” Not to say that what we go through as students isn’t “real” per se, but there is definitely something to be said about the safety net felt by all while in college. Especially for recovering students, at a place like StepUP, if the desire is there, it is a relatively easy place to stay sober. This perspective of gratitude for such a healthy environment was not lost on Gabe, and led him to reflect throughout the trip on how far StepUP has come in relation to other institutions. “As Augsburg students we have a building for us and staff there for us…This conference called things into perspective about how good we have it at StepUP.” Councilor Scott W. and StepUP students posing for a picture.

A highpoint came on the trip when Washburn, Gabe and Joey had the opportunity to pick the brains of a couple of professionals who have risen to the top of their field within addiction studies, drug prevention and drug treatment: David K. Mineta, the Deputy Director of Demand Reduction with the Office of National Drug Control Policy, Executive Office of the President, and Kevin McCauley, the co-founder of the Institute of Addiction Studies. According to Gabe, they spent their time, “chatting about drug policy, being young and sober and talking to them about ideas, asking for insight.” It was refreshing for him, considering that the conversation didn’t feel as though these respected professionals were talking to them as students but rather as colleagues. This speaks to the event as a whole with Gabe remarking, “Everybody we met was there to help. There wasn’t much ego involved.”

That wasn’t the only time spent connecting with others about the joys and pitfalls of being sober in college. Joey commented on other highpoints for those who went which included spending time talking and walking with students from around the country discussing what their experiences are like, “I gained the most from talking with CRC Staff members about how to better programs and ways in which to promote academic success with students.” In an environment like that, it was easy for those involved to get vulnerable and to talk openly and honestly about their programs and search for ways in which we can all improve. Program director, Patrice S., and a StepUP student.

This conference, of course, was filled with realizations for all, reminding everyone of the work that collegiate recovery programs face. Most of all, regarding the transition from collegiate life into the “real world”, is the battle with stigma. This fact of very present stigma surrounding addiction led one presenter to remark that, “We can’t have shame.” Students from these programs must have the right to enter into the world with the pride that the work done in these programs wasn’t for naught. That students can hold their heads high and know that the experience has changed their outlook for the better. We all have a right to a college experience, and for Gabe’s part, this seemed a main mission of the conference, “Battling stigma, believing that we get to be normal people.” He continues on to remark that the experience, “Renewed my gratitude for collegiate recovery and I walked away with a new sense of duty to make this an option for anybody who wants it.”

 

 

 

All About Service

Photo of a street sign that reads, "Service".The StepUP program offers a variety of service opportunities to the students and I thought I would write about my personal experience with one of these many opportunities.  Every second and fourth Tuesday of the week, StepUP holds a commitment where the students take a big book meeting to Hazelden Center for Youth & Families (HCYF) in Plymouth, MN.  I have been the main contact for this responsibility for a few months now and it has become the weekly highlight of my recovery.

I often don’t want to make the drive out to Plymouth, but am always pleased afterwards.  I attended treatment at HCYF and have always been grateful to be able to give back to their organization.  I have spoken there a handful of times through channels not related to StepUP, but to lead a consistent commitment connected with the program that has allowed me to achieve so much, makes me grateful beyond measure.  We usually have around three or four StepUP students that spend an hour there every other week.  However that hour carries over and is with me throughout the entire week.

I spent so many days and nights there when I was in inpatient treatment that memories flood my senses every time I walk through their doors.  I was able to start over there and it feels so good to continue going back to see so many others getting the chance to start over as well.  One great thing this service opportunity has given me is a chance to sponsor and share my experience, strength, and hope. It’s great, because I was sitting right where all the patients are sitting not that long ago.

Service is a huge part of what keeps me sober today because I can’t keep my sobriety unless I give it back.  A great thing about taking meetings to a treatment center is that it helps humble me and remind me where I was and how far I have come.  I know I am just as close to my next drink as the kids in treatment. So I take out assurances such as committing to service to keep me moving away from my will and towards my higher powers will.

I learned about the StepUP program while I was attending treatment in Plymouth so it really is an honor to be able to spread the news that collegiate recovery is possible.  Newcomers are the most important thing to my 12-step program, and treatment centers are the best place to find them through attraction and not promotion.

-Blake Halvorson