The Alumni Say “Farewell” to the Phase One Building
On Thursday, February the 24th, The Extension Alumni hosted a Phase One Building Farewell Party. Residents, counselors, family members, and former staff gathered for dinner and one last “Power Hour” event to say a proper “farewell” to our old building. The current residents circled up and served dinner to the Alumni in the dining room, sharing stories, support, and encouragement. After dinner, everyone gathered in the AA room for the final “Power Hour” event.
You could feel the energy and excitement in the room as former men’s Directors JJ Bremner and Robert Jordan spoke about their experiences at The Extension and their journey in long-term recovery. JJ Bremner commented, “The Last One” showed and felt like what the Extension is all about. The energy in that room generated by YOU GUYS was electric, powerful, and heartfelt.” In addition, former directors and staff, JJ Bremner, Robert Jordan, Barb Frost, and Wynema Barber, were presented with plaques honoring them for their service to The Extension and the recovery community.
According to Edward Ehlers, Program Coordinator/Admissions Representative and coordinator for the event, “The souls
saved in our phase one meeting room are ultimately what makes that room so special. Countless individuals have found themselves, their true selves, in this room, and many say they grew up here. We wanted to provide an opportunity to say goodbye while also saying hello to the new. The alumni and volunteers are the keys to the success of our program…We hope this event will rejuvenate and reignite these amazing individuals because they are needed now more than ever. Thank you to all the retired directors and current directors that made this night happen for us.”
The event was bittersweet for many of our staff, alumni, and their families. Back in 1994, The Extension purchased the 1930s manufacturing building. The building was not designed for human occupation. Still, with a lot of love, elbow grease, and the cooperation of our local building officials, we transformed it into our first permanent home with 26 beds, a kitchen, and meeting rooms. The building has served hundreds of men over the past 28 years. In April, the old Phase One building will be torn down, and with the help of our Board of Directors, Capital Campaign Committee, and our generous supporters, a new 22,000 square foot facility will take its’ place. The new facility will increase our capacity to help men struggling with homelessness and addiction by 70%. But even more importantly, this new space will provide even more opportunities for men to receive help, healing, and hope for a better future.
-Renee McCormick, Director of Community Relations
