Michael Johnson
In October 2009, I started the GED program at Visions of Hope. I had heard about the GED program through my mom, who is also a member of Visions. Just one year later in October 2010, I received my GED—with high scores, I would like to add! While working on my GED, I volunteered at Visions cleaning up after the lunch service. My was motive to get a paid job. In January 2010, I started working one hour a day and gradually gained more hours. This was a real accomplishment for me.
I had interviewed for several jobs, but my criminal record often kept me from being hired. I also I had a difficult time being interviewed. I would become paranoid and so nervous that I could not answer any of the questions. Since I was familiar with everyone at Visions, I knew that I would not get nervous and my work would speak for itself. And it did! James Russo, CEO for Visions of Hope, gave me a chance when no one else would. I will never forget him for that.
On September 11, 2010, I decided to stop smoking and to start losing weight. I knew that it was going to be difficult, but I also knew that I could do it. I wanted to be a “better role model.” You see, until 2006, I was a meth addict. I was sober for a few months in 2006 and then had a relapse. But, in 2007 I stopped using and have been sober ever since.
To stop smoking, I had help from the Visions of Hope Healthy Living program. Glenyss Lim, R.N., the director of the program was my support. She connected me with the ASHLine Program (www.ashline.org) through which I received phone counseling when I needed help and nicotine patches. Since I didn’t want to gain weight, I also started dieting. Ms. Lim was helpful by giving me information and support when I needed it. I am now a “non-smoker” and have lost a significant amount of weight.
And the good things keep on coming…In January, I became kitchen manager at Visions of Hope. I have three people that report to me. Daily we prepare breakfast and lunch for nearly 45 members and about 30 staff. I am responsible for the kitchen operations, which includes ordering food to cleaning up. In February, I took the Arizona Certified Professional Food Manager course and passed with a score of 91 out of 100! I love to cook and I love hearing how much everyone enjoyed their breakfast and lunch. I just love my job!
Visions of Hope is an amazing place. I believe they saved my life. I had lost hope and would have fallen back into drugs and prison if it wasn’t for James, Glenyss and everyone else at Visions.
