RICHMOND, VA (WWBT) -
When you're battling addiction to drugs and alcohol, the support and counsel of people who've fought those demons and won is critical.
We're paying it forward to the president of a Richmond recovery center that's served the community for over 20 years.
He's a volunteer on a mission to keep the doors open — and a patron is offering an Act of Kindness.
The Midlothian Turnpike sign sparks curiosity. REBOS is "sober" spelled backwards. The member-supported non-profit is a refuge for patrons like Ashley who can attend meetings seven days a week, 6 a.m. to midnight.
"It's been my rock, this place has literally saved my life."
Ashley started coming to REBOS three years ago, after her addictions led to arrest.
"It landed me in jail. That was my bottom. I was drinking 24-7, I was addicted to pain pills. By the time I got here, I was broken, I was shattered, worn down."
The fellowship at REBOS helped lift her back up. She's been clean and sober three years and credits the support of mentors like president Steve Lherex.
"If you need a phone call from somebody to talk to, he'll stop and drop and come. He gives back here freely of all his time, he has donated money to help try and keep the doors open."
Ashley wants to help with that cause, but before we can hand over the cash we've got some explaining to do.
Sabrina: "Hey, hi, well Ashley brought us here, she nominated you for our Acts of Kindness recognition."
Ashley: "You have helped save so many lives before me, you've helped save me, and you've taught me a lot, you're still teaching me and I know there's many more to come after me and I just wanted to say thank you and that I love you."
What more needs to be said , we just pass on the cash, so Ashley can pay it forward.
Ashley: "$300 I want to give to you, to say thank you."
Steve: "I'm gonna give that right back to REBOS."
Steve says he's dedicated to serving REBOS.
Steve: "I'm just blessed to be able to do that today."
Because it helped deliver him from decades of addiction to alcohol, heroin and cocaine.
Steve: "Was unemployable and had lost the family, the home and dined in a couple of trash cans a few times."
He now runs a small business and employs some REBOS members. They host drug-free activities — camping, fishing, holiday celebrations — for addicts and their families. Every donation he says ensures the doors stay open another day.
Steve: "Like most charities, times are tough and donations are down. We're good for a couple more months, god hasn't let us down yet."
For more information about REBOS, visit their website.
If there's an organization or individual you believe deserves an Act of Kindness, e-mail me. Remember, it cannot be a relative.
Send your nomination to kindness@nbc12.com.
Copyright 2012 WWBT NBC12. All rights reserved.
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