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children from a mother who was struggling with her own demons of addiction.

Her road to recovery left her wanting to give back. She returned to school for a degree in drug and alcohol counseling. Crouch always dreamed of working with Nexus, where she says the single-gender model best suited her skillset.

“[Clients] are not trying to look cute for guys or looking for new relationships,” she says. “I have found that we get further faster here.”

When an opportunity arose to work for Nexus, she jumped and worked her way up to be the nonprofit’s program director. She specifically addresses trauma to increase coping skills, as many addicts mask past trauma by abusing drugs and alcohol. The curriculum focuses on the 12-step program but allows the women to design their own recovery, too.

Crouch’s experience on both sides of recovery leaves her well informed about how trauma, genetics and nurturing can influence one’s path toward addiction.

The East Dallas facility on La Prada Drive is a converted Bible College where more than 2,000 women and their children receive treatment via inpatient and outpatient services, including counseling and support for single women, mothers, teens and expectant mothers, often for those who can’t afford it. They help patients find long-term sobriety, deal with trauma and develop coping skills, which has become even more salient during the opioid epidemic.

Unlike most treatment facilities, Nexus allows women to bring their children, with childcare facilities and Dallas ISD classes offered on campus. This allows the women to focus on their recovery without the added stress of being separated from their children.

Crouch doesn’t hide from her past and is proud of what she has done to turn her life around.

“I am grateful for my addiction,” she says. “I wouldn’t be the person I am today and have the openness and compassion I have without having gone through it.”

WAYS TO HELP:

Nexus has a wide range of volunteer opportunities, no matter how much time one has to give. Volunteers can help the Dallas ISD teachers in the teen classroom, assist in the office with administrative tasks, or serve as a mentor for a teenage girl. Contact Beth Hunter at 214.321.0156, ext. 2101, or bhunter@nexusrecovery.org for more information.

MEXICAN GRILL Enchilada’s

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Come Enjoy Our Resort Style Big Brunch Buffet Every Sunday from 10AM-2PM.

What’s

Hello Dumpling offers casual Beijing soul food with a delicious selection of fresh handmade dumplings, noodles, grilled meats, salads and boba teas. Our extensive vegetarian options are entirely vegan to boot. So stop by for lunch, dinner or just some tea at East Dallas’ newest hangout.