DC16 Recovery Night: Hope. Healing. Action. 

Last night, we came together as a union family for an unforgettable Recovery Night — an evening that shined a light on addiction, mental health, and the power of support. We fully implemented the Helping Hand program after we lost 182 members in a 12 month period to suicide and addiction. We made a promise: No more silent struggles.

Speakers courageously shared their journeys:

🗣 “It is never too late. No matter how bad it was, there is hope and there is an answer.” – Jeff Roberts

🗣 “Behind every statistic is a person, a family, a community.” – Dr. Deb

🗣 “DC16 is giving children back their mothers and fathers. All the wages and benefits mean nothing if we’re losing lives.” – Daniel Lincoln

🗣 “It’s okay to not be okay. Asking for help doesn’t make you weak—it’s one of your greatest strengths.” – Angela Njoroge

At the heart of this effort is James Boster, Director of Mental Health & Addiction Services, and Robert Williams, DC16 BMST, whose vision and leadership made this program a reality. Robert recognized the urgent need for change and championed the creation of the Recovery Program—because of him, lives are being saved.

Together, they’ve helped save 99 lives so far—and we’re just getting started.

DC16 is leading the way:

✔️ Breaking stigma

✔️ Providing real resources

✔️ Restoring hope to families

✔️ Giving our members back their lives

We’re building more than buildings—we’re building each other up. If you’re struggling, please reach out to James Boster jamesb@dc16iupat.org.

You are not alone.