Observing Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month
January 2025 marks the inaugural Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month, a critical initiative aimed at raising awareness, reducing stigma, and fostering support for those affected by substance use disorder (SUD). Spectrum Health Systems is proud to participate in this national effort to shine a light on the possibilities of recovery ...
Board Member Spotlight: Brenda Jenkins
With over 30 years of experience in advocacy and community work, Brenda Jenkins brings a unique and invaluable perspective to Spectrum’s mission of supporting individuals affected by substance use disorders and mental health challenges. A Lifelong Commitment to Advocacy Her passion for advocacy began at an early age, inspired by ...
LCTV News Interview | The Recovery Exchange
Lynn Community Television Date: November 15, 2024 The Recovery Exchange joined Lynn Community Television on an episode of the Lynn Lowdown. Kim Patterson (Program Director) and Idris Forde (Recovery Coach Intern / Peer Leader) discuss their significant impact in the community and highlights from the last year, including Family Fun ...
‘We needed to improve access:’ Spectrum Health Systems opens Main South treatment center
Spectrum News 1 Date: November 15, 2024 WORCESTER, Mass. — Access. It's the one word which single-handedly led Spectrum Health Systems to open a new outpatient treatment center in Worcester's Main South. "A lot of our patients are already from this neighborhood," site manager Alexa Burnham said. "They've been having ...
A Letter from Our President: Kurt Isaacson Reflects on 2024
Reflecting on 2024, I'm filled with pride for the incredible individuals and communities that make Spectrum Health Systems the beacon of hope it is today. This past year has brought remarkable achievements, growth, and new opportunities to expand our mission of providing accessible, life-changing treatment. At the core ...
Merrimack Alum Cassandra Long’s Journey From Law School to Human Services
Merrimack College Date: December 2024 Cassandra Long graduated from Merrimack in 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in criminology and criminal justice and earned her master’s degree in 2018. Six years later, Cassandra returned to campus for Merrimack’s Professional Development Retreat (PDR), to help students build connections and give career guidance. ...
Overcoming Employment Stigma and Finding Purpose
One of the most complex challenges in addiction recovery is re-entering the workforce. Employment stigma remains a significant barrier, rooted in misconceptions about reliability, trustworthiness, and the perceived risks of hiring someone with a complex past. This stigma affects job seekers and deprives workplaces of dedicated, empathetic, resilient employees. By ...
Celebrity Recovery Spotlight: Bradley Cooper
Bradley Cooper’s journey from addiction to the heights of Hollywood is both inspiring and illuminating. Known for his roles in blockbuster hits and award winners like Guardians of the Galaxy and A Star Is Born, Cooper’s path has not been without serious obstacles, including a painful struggle with substance misuse. ...
Spectrum Health Systems Announces New Outpatient Treatment Center in Worcester
Spectrum Health Systems, Inc., a leading nonprofit organization providing a comprehensive continuum of addiction treatment and behavioral health services, today announced the upcoming opening of its new outpatient treatment facility at 1023 Main Street in Worcester. The center will both welcome new clients and consolidate two of the organization’s Worcester-based ...
Why Transparency Helps in Addiction Recovery
Addiction recovery is marked by challenges, breakthroughs, and the need for a strong support system. One essential element for successful recovery is transparency — being open and honest about your struggles, goals, and progress. Transparency aids in healing, builds trust, reinforces accountability, and creates a solid foundation for lasting change. ...
