Danita Morgan attends the Problem Solving Court Graduation, along with State’s Attorney William Glasgow. –Photo submitted.
Glasgow Announces 27 Participants Graduate Will County Problem Solving Court
Alumna tells audience that before entering program,
“I was absolutely certain my addiction was the end for me.”
State’s Attorney James Glasgow announced 27 people graduated from the Will County Problem Solving Courts in a January 19 ceremony at the Jacob Henry Mansion in Joliet. To date, 796 individuals have turned their lives around through the diversionary court program.
“The 27 individuals graduating today are to be commended for successfully embarking on their roads to recovery. In reading the biographies of these dedicated graduates, it struck me how they all talked about plans for their futures. Through this program, they have a renewed hope,” Glasgow said. “Although they are now alumni, we will continue to support them as they continue in their lifetime journeys. They are members of the Problem Solving Courts family.”
The ceremony honored five Veterans Court graduates, from Joliet, Aurora, Beecher, Wilmington, and Plainfield; 11 Drug Court graduates hailing from Joliet, Marseilles, Crete, Bolingbrook, and New Lenox; and 11 Mental Health Court graduates, who hail from Lockport, Romeoville, Joliet, Shorewood, Plainfield, Braidwood, and Homer Glen.
In addition to remarks by Glasgow and Associate Circuit Court Judge Fred Harvey, Problem Solving Courts alumna Danita Morgan of Braidwood spoke about her experience. Morgan graduated from Mental Health Court in January 2022. Here is an excerpt of her speech:
“There once was a point in my life that I was absolutely certain my addiction was the end for me. I felt worthless. I messed up too much to be forgiven. There was no going back. It was my life and would be my death. After suffering the greatest pain any human being could feel with the death of my son, I wanted it to end me. I tried to end me. I failed. When I was lost, I didn’t think I could be found, and I didn’t want to be. Then I was introduced to the problem solving court….
“Once someone takes the first steps to reconnect themselves to who they truly are and get clear, it’s scary. To feel emotions again. To not know what they are anymore. To doubt every thought and action. To go ahead on into uncomfortability and the absolute unknown. To face the horrible things we have done to those who love us so much. To relearn the coping skills needed for a healthy and happy life. The program assists in that process. However, the support doesn’t stop after graduation.
“Some of you are probably planning your relapse at this very moment. To those who are, I beg of you to reconsider. Fully trust the support you have received from this program will continue after graduation. You are absolutely worth more than becoming another statistic.”
Morgan has worked with the Will County Substance Use Initiatives Team in the Will County Health Department since graduating from the program. She also is working to complete her internship with the Braidwood Health Area Community Coalition to become a Certified Recovery Support Specialist.
Illinois News
Area News
Rep. Haas Calls Out Sneaky Tactics in Senate Bill 2412
Spread the loveFollowing the passage of House Floor Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2412 through the House, State Rep. Jackie Haas released the following statement. “I am deeply disappointed and concerned by the passage of Senate Bill 2412, as well the unnecessarily brisk process that brought it to the House floor,” said Rep. Haas. “This…
Attention Seniors: Community Nutrition Network/Senior Services Association Announce Newest Location
Spread the loveCommunity Nutrition Network and Senior Services Association is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its newest location, New Hope Christian Community Church, 4700 W. Court Street, Monee, which is scheduled for June 7, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Community Nutrition Network and Senior Services Association invites the community to celebrate this…
Will County Holding Annual Textiles, Small Home Goods Collection May 6-10
Spread the loveWill County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant invites residents to the annual Textile and Small Home Goods Collection Event at the Will County Office Building, 302 North Chicago Street, Monday, May 6 through Friday, May 10. A wide range of items will be collected for reuse and recycling during the week, including coats, shirts, pants,…
Crete Library News
Spread the loveThursday, May 9 Anime Club, from 3 – 4:30 p.m., grades sixth/12th: Join us for a screening of “Mobile Suit Gundam Wing.” Snacks and refreshments will be provided. Register. Trivia Night at Evil Horse, 1338 Main Street, from 7 – 9 p.m.: Compete on your own or bring a group of friends. Prizes…
Mother’s Day Basket Bingo May 11
Spread the loveMark your calendar for “Mother’s Day Basket Bingo,” the bi-annual basket bingo fundraiser for Flight Club Survivor. This fun event will be held on Saturday, May 11, with doors opening at 5 p.m. and bingo at 6 p.m., at 209 W. Dixie Highway in Grant Park. Tickets are $20 per person for the…
Healing and Investment Key to Growth in Our Communities, State
Spread the love“Put yourself in their shoes. Have a heart.” As a member of the Illinois Senate’s budget committee on Health and Human Services, I work with my fellow legislators to understand the needs in our communities and try to match resources to meet those needs. These are never easy decisions because homelessness and housing…
DeLuca Backs Reforms to Make Health Care More Affordable, Expand Access
Spread the loveLooking to drive down health care costs and expand access for families, State Rep. Anthony DeLuca recently backed an insurance reform plan that prioritizes patients by cracking down on large rate increases, banning “step therapy,” and stopping “junk insurance” plans that provide no real coverage. “These are needed reforms that recognize the challenges…
House Passes Rep. Haas’ Bill Addressing Childcare Shortage
Spread the loveHouse Bill 4059, filed by State Rep, Jackie Haas, recently passed the House with a unanimous vote of 104-0. “The passage of House Bill 4059 is the first step in addressing the critical shortage of licensed daycare providers in the State of Illinois,” said Rep. Haas. “This bill ensures the Department of Children…
Rep. Haas Passes Bill Supporting Law Enforcement
Spread the loveRecently, House Bill 5174, filed by State Rep. Jackie Haas, passed the House floor with a unanimous vote of 108-0. “Today’s passage of House Bill 5174 is a huge win for law enforcement officers and school safety,” said Rep. Haas. “This bill will incentivize retired law enforcement officers to return to work as…
Poppin Plates Culinary Incubator Recognized as April Local Business Spotlight
Spread the loveFor April’s local business spotlight, State Rep. Jackie Haas recognized Poppin Plates Culinary Incubator in Park Forest. Rep. Haas spent time touring the business and presented the owner with a certificate of appreciation for her contributions to the community. “I am honored to recognize Poppin Plates Culinary Incubator for my April Local Business…
Join Lightways Hospice/Serious Illness Care at Dino-mite 5K Family Fun Run
Spread the loveProceeds support pediatric care program Runners from across the region are invited to the 11th annual Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care 5K Family Fun Run on Saturday, June 1, at the New Lenox Commons, 1 Veterans Parkway in New Lenox. The event includes a 5K run for ages 14 and older and…
Crete Library News
Spread the loveThursday, May 2 Knot Just for Knitters, from 1 – 2 p.m., ages 11/adult: Join us to socialize while working on knitting, crocheting, or any other type of needlework project. Drop in. Friday, May 3 Retro Movie Fridays, from 2:30 – 4:45 p.m., all ages: Showing “The Goonies” (rated PG). Drop in. Saturday,…
Legion Post 392 Fish Fry
Spread the lovePeotone American Legion Post 392 will host its last of the season monthly all-you-can-eat fish fry, on Saturday, May 11, from 4:30 to 6:30p.m. or until sold out. Tickets are $15 for either perch or catfish and include French fries, cole slaw, bread, and butter. Don’t forget delicious desserts, from the Legion Auxiliary,…