Do you know someone at Robin’s Hope that has made a difference in your life? Submit their name to be our next Hope Hero!

2024

August 2024 | Carol

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your story.  

I lost my nephew to suicide 6 years ago on July 26 at the age of 38. We were very close. Spent a lot of time together, going to his dad’s house in North Myrtle Beach. Spending the holidays together and just going out to dinner together after work. Great guy and had a lot going for him. I had a hard time dealing with his loss. Started counseling with Jennifer. Then joined Robin’s Hope. So glad I did. 

How did you first hear about Robin’s Hope? 

I went to one-on-one counseling with Jennifer Kell and while waiting for her Heather was in the office and told me about Robin’s Hope. I started going to Rise 6 years ago and try to not miss a week. I have come a long way. I was very depressed and had a lot of anxiety but have learned to overcome that. I feel a lot stronger emotionally and can help others in the same situation. 

What is one memory of Robin’s Hope that stands out or one accomplishment you have made that stands out for you? 

I was in a deep dark hole over the loss of my nephew, I definitely have come a long way and feel that now I can help others in my same situation. 

What is your favorite group (or most impactful)? Why? 

Rise on Wednesday night is the main group I go to. I enjoy being around people of the same walk of life that I have been through. 

What makes Robin’s Hope unique? 

We feel comfortable in the environment and able to express yourself without being criticized. 

What motivates you to come back to Robin’s Hope every week? 

Sharing my experiences with others and getting other people to share with you about what they have gone through. Not feeling alone about yourself. 

July 2024 | Kelly S.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your story.  

Hi everyone! I’m Kelly, an intern at Robin’s Hope. I’m fueled by connecting with others and sharing my journey of healing from CPTSD and alcohol dependence. Let’s empower each other! 

How did you first hear about Robin’s Hope? 

My internship search took an amazing turn! Found not just an opportunity, but a supportive group of people who are helping me grow. This community is truly wonderful, and I’m so grateful to be a part of it.

What does Robin’s Hope mean to you now? 

Team approach to healing and happiness, fulfillment.

What is one memory of Robin’s Hope that stands out or one accomplishment you have made that stands out for you? 

Recently visiting for the Open House was a highlight for me, being able to meet the participants and being part of an amazing team! 

What is your favorite group (or most impactful)? Why? 

I enjoy every group but, music group is my favorite way to heal. I believe music can take us on so many journeys and has a way of bringing people together. 

What makes Robin’s Hope unique? 

What sets Robin’s Hope apart is its focus on empowering individuals to heal at their own pace. 

What motivates you to come back to Robin’s Hope every week? 

Robin’s Hope keeps me coming back for two reasons: my own healing journey and the chance to support others on theirs. Each week is an opportunity for growth 

June 2024 | Carrie G.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your story. How did you first hear about Robin’s Hope? 

My son’s suicide brought me to Richmond VA to care for my 14 year old grand-daughter, Alex.  She has now moved in with my daughter, Hannah in San Francisco.  Traumatic events can unite and break people and families.  I left my entire security system:  apartment, clothing and sobriety when my son, Seth died.  I came to Robin’s Hope from a friend I met on my journey into sober living.  Her name was Kelly.  In my first ACE at Robin’s Hope RISE meeting on a Monday night in October almost 6 years ago.  I connected with the gang…my new tribe and network of recovery from the 5 ACE’s I have survived throughout my life.  I have worked on my grief recovery with GRAPLE (a grief resource for those who have lost loved ones to SUD) and partners with Robin’s Hope.  The honesty I needed to be clear enough to listen and learn a new perspective:  a way of thinking, behaving, reacting and constantly learning and loving myself enough to hope that I can recover.

What does Robin’s Hope mean to you now? 

Team approach to healing and happiness, fulfillment.

What is one memory of Robin’s Hope that stands out or one accomplishment you have made that stands out for you? 

I’ve been with Robins Hope as a relationship growth community longer than any marital partner or human companion.

What is your favorite group (or most impactful)?  Why? 

RISE and DBT groups on Fridays.  I’ve learned resilience in both.

What makes Robin’s Hope unique? 

All of us, as a collective.

What motivates you to come back to Robin’s Hope every week? 

Relief, health of my brain and vocabulary, articulate my day by day family (adult children), attachments, the fellowship with humans.

May 2024 | Michael E.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your story.  

My name is Michael Anthony Evans. When I was a teenager I started to suffer from major depression. I used to use alcohol and drugs to deal with my mental illness. I used to get bullied a lot and threats from bad people and was threatened with robbery but I sought help. I went to Tuckers and they monitored me and I finally told my sister what had happened to me. I have been diagnosed with major depression, schizoaffective with bipolar. I spent three years in central state and I stayed distant from everyone before being discharged. I went to some group homes and had roommates and got connection to others like me. I went to Chester house and found Robins Hope. Robins Hope has helped me a lot. I go to groups on anxiety, fear, coping skills, and DBT. I still work on self affirmations and healthy living. People from the ACT team and from Robins Hope have been a huge part of my recovery. Robins Hope gives me hope and I tell people about it and that it can be hope for them too. I have friends here and learn coping skills. I tell the truth about how I feel and express my emotions. I got my own place now and have some independence. 

How did you first hear about Robin’s Hope? What does Robin’s Hope mean to you now? 

When Friends for Recovery closed down Kathy from Friends  told us about another program that we could go to. I’ve been coming ever since.  Robins Hope is a place to come be among my peers and get the encouragement I need and support that i want. 

What is one memory of Robin’s Hope that stands out or one accomplishment you have made that stands out for you? 

I am more verbal than I used to be and talk to my peers. When a speaker comes in and talks about something important that stands out. Before I came here I wasn’t doing the best. Once we had a group where we practiced telling our stories and when I told my story everyone listened and gave support. 

What is your favorite group (or most impactful)? Why? 

I like groups with Monica and I like art group. I take away something from all the groups. I really like the socialization part about coming to Robins Hope. I may not talk when I first arrive but I participate in all the groups. I try to support others by telling my story. 

What makes Robin’s Hope unique? 

The one on one support I get from Rye and the connection to peers. 

What motivates you to come back to Robin’s Hope every week? 

Giving me a place to be myself and socialize and talk among friends. Im happy to be a part of a place that I can express my feelings without being judged. Some places label you but being here I feel like Im more than my illness and feel safe being myself. 

April 2024 | Laura M. 

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your story. 

I’m a Trauma Survivor, single mother of two adult single children. I am the youngest of 5 children. I have struggled with depression all my life, and PTSD. I have not understood why I couldn’t have healthy relationships or communicate my needs in a clear concise manner. About 4 years ago, I was introduced to Robin’s Hope by a friend and Peer Counselor in training to come check out a workshop on “Gaslighting”. From that moment on I was hooked! I was able to be a “part” of the conversation, not be humiliated for having emotions, or shamed for how I looked or thought. I signed up for the email list and continued coming to Virtual Groups( Body Keeps the Score, Boundaries, Peer Check-In, Seeking Safety). I fought to get counseling at Robin’s Hope as I listened in the Group and saw and heard the transformation the women were making. I showed up for myself for 18 months every Thursday morning. I got to learn who I was and what I liked. I was scared, broken, abandoned, rejected, manipulated, and confused. I had been in a ten year toxic relationship with a narcissist that modeled the relationship I had with my emotionally immature father and the physically and emotionally violent relationship my parents had with each other. I continued to work on the Trauma. After the Trauma, my counselor wanted me to work on other things like esteem, communication skills, boundaries, expectations, and also my future. My counselor is still doing groups but took a break to get certified. I fought to get someone at Robin’s Hope to help me the rest of the way. Michael found me my current Peer Specialist, Melissa. She has forced me to work on the most important part of my recovery. Imposter Syndrome and my value. I am currently finishing a certification in Life Coaching. She has listened, read, and given awesome feedback every Tuesday morning on Zoom as I walk through this scary but exciting adventure in my life at 58 years old to take what I’ve learned, experienced, and grown from and offer it to someone else. For that I’m so grateful ❣️ 

How did you first hear about Robin’s Hope?  What does Robin’s Hope mean to you now? 

4 years ago through a Peer Recovery Specialist in training. Robin’s Hope is a life raft for those who are drowning and need to get safely to land. Those who are both launching the raft and on the other side are loving, safe, non-judgemental, but also giving you the necessary push to learn from that need to get into risky behavior situations with unhealthy people. But if you do, they give you the tools to take care of yourself and not be afraid or ashamed to ask for help.  

What is one memory of Robin’s Hope that stands out or one accomplishment you have made that stands out for you? 

Being in the Body Keeps the Score. Finishing the book and then repeating it. The exercises Angie used were so wonderful as were the discussions we had. It made the book even more applicable personally to my life. 

What is your favorite group (or most impactful)?  Why? 

Seeking Safety. Often the quotes that were drawn and gone over at the beginning of the next week we all had a living experience with it. 

What makes Robin’s Hope unique? 

The way they handle trauma through art, song, music, breath work, mindfulness, meditation, journaling, and workshops is a true healing. They continue to offer more options for what gets the message of hope and healing out there for the most. 

What motivates you to come back to Robin’s Hope every week? 

Currently for achieving my Goal- Counseling. I never know when I’ll pop into a Group however. My counselor taught me to open my mind and body to many options and not limit myself in a boring rut.

March 2024 | Jess V.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your story.  

I crawled out of a downward spiral of depression and alcoholism February 1, 2022. When I was 15 months into my recovery I trained as a Peer Recovery Specialist. At 18 months, I began my internship with Robin’s Hope! A month later, I added my second internship with MHAV WarmLine. 

Today I work as a CPRS/Recovery Coach for Master Center for Addiction Medicine and facilitate a virtual Alcoholics Anonymous meeting every week that brings recovery to many parts of the world!

How did you first hear about Robin’s Hope? What does Robin’s Hope mean to you now? 

I was searching for an internship on the Peer Recovery Specialist Network.

What is one memory of Robin’s Hope that stands out or one accomplishment you have made that stands out for you? 

The Westchester concert! My husband and I had so much fun volunteering and raising money! It was a great night.

What is your favorite group (or most impactful)? Why? 

Peer Check-Ins. I think it’s a great space to get to know everyone and just EXIST with one another.

What makes Robin’s Hope unique? 

I don’t have a lot of other experience outside of AA, but I believe the myriad of group focuses, the continuous strive for inclusion, and the different backgrounds of the PRS volunteers make Robin’s Hope a true melting pot for all.

What motivates you to come back to Robin’s Hope every week? 

Although I am no longer a volunteer, it was really important to me that I held myself accountable for the participants. I wanted to be someone reliable to count on in the fragility of recovery.  

February 2024 | Amber D.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your story. 

I’m Amber, keeper of the critters.  I didn’t know how dysfunctional I grew up and didn’t understand why I was living in a cycle.  Robins Hope has given me the courage to leave an abusive relationship and the resources to help start healing my traumas.

How did you first hear about Robin’s Hope? 

Chesterfield Commonwealth Attorney — to me now it means the place that helped me save my life and start healing.

What is one memory of Robin’s Hope that stands out or one accomplishment you have made that stands out for you? 

Being able to share my small accomplishments in leaving a bad relationship and making healthy choices.

What is your favorite group (or most impactful)? Why? 

Boundaries – I never knew about boundaries and how helpful they could make managing my life.

What makes Robin’s Hope unique? 

Our safe space and the way we support each other daily.

What motivates you to come back to Robin’s Hope every week? 

It brings me purpose and helps me to stay on a positive momentum on healing.

January 2024 | Ellen D.

Listen to Ellen’s story.

2023

December 2023 | Gretchen

Watch Gretchen’s story.

November 2023 | TBD

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your story. 

I am a semiretired art director/designer and artist. In 2014 I relocated to Richmond from Omaha, NE.; when my father went into hospice care. I quit my day job and my teaching job, sold my house, and left my home for the last 35 years. Before COVID lockdown I was making a headway into making new friends by joining art associations, showing my paintings at art shows and teaching crochet classes. After the lockdown I joined a zoom silent book clubs and some artist zoom groups. I am introverted,  so I enjoyed spending my days sketching, reading and playing with my cat, Sofia. Sofia is one of my joys in life. I also discovered Robin’s Hope. A great place to connect with other people.

How did you first hear about Robin’s Hope?  What does Robin’s Hope mean to you now? 

During COVID lockdown I discovered Robin’s Hope through their website. The Zoom meetings made a big difference for me during COVID-19. For me Robin’s Hope is a place to connect to people, learn new skills and help others.

What is one memory of Robin’s Hope that stands out or one accomplishment you have made that stands out for you? 

Robin’s Hope has given me the chance to teach again. Last year I taught how to make a variety of snowflakes and tree ornaments in an art class. I am now teaching people to make flower pins for the fundraising Gala. We are close to our 150 flower pin goal. I plan to teach how to decorate Holiday cards for hospitalized veterans in November. I enjoy getting out and sharing my crafty art knowledge.

What is your favorite group (or most impactful)?  Why? 

Golden Seniors, cover topics that are relevant to me and my ongoing challenges. It is a supportive group with people I can easily relate to and laugh with.

What makes Robin’s Hope unique?

Robin’s Hope reaches and helps so many people by having in person and zoom meetings. There is such a variety of groups and meetings that there is something for everyone who is dealing with or has dealt with trauma. The people are friendly and it is easy to join a meeting and feel supported.

What motivates you to come back to Robin’s Hope every week? 

The people.

October 2023 | Julie C.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your story. 

It’s been a long journey to find me as a recovering addict and recovering trauma survivor. I have learned to make purpose of my pain so that I can be of service to others to provide hope and inspiration.

How did you first hear about Robin’s Hope?  What does Robin’s Hope mean to you now? 

I was referred by a friend who had been affiliated with Robin’s Hope when I had a significant trigger I was not anticipating after moving back to Richmond. Robin’s Hope is a safe loving environment where everyone supports each other through their trauma recovery. We see and hear one another and we value each other’s experiences.

What is one memory of Robin’s Hope that stands out or one accomplishment you have made that stands out for you? 

The bond that I’ve created with a few peers. It’s just all so beautiful even when it isn’t.

What is your favorite group (or most impactful)?  Why? 

My favorite group is the group that I now facilitate, Healing Through Music. Music has always been a healthy escape and a part of my healing and I want to share that with everyone.

What makes Robin’s Hope unique? 

The diversity of staff, interns and participants and the love that is shared despite our differences.

What motivates you to come back to Robin’s Hope every week? 

It brings me joy.

September 2023 | Jena R.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your story. 

My name is Jena Rivas, I am 31. When I was little my mom and my bio dad argued a lot. I am diagnosed with high-functioning autism, OCD, and mood disorder.

How did you first hear about Robin’s Hope?  What does Robin’s Hope mean to you now? 

I heard about Robins Hope through Friends 4 recovery, if it wasn’t for Robins Hope I would be sitting at home. Robin’s Hope means the world to me. The staff has taught me to be brave and to have confidence in myself. 

What is one memory of Robin’s Hope that stands out or one accomplishment you have made that stands out for you? 

Being able to stand up for myself 

What is your favorite group (or most impactful)?  Why? 

My favorite group is Rise, because it has taught me to conquer my fears 

What makes Robin’s Hope unique? 

Robins Hope is unique in a lot of ways cause they help people who have had trauma or experienced abuse. The staff at Robins Hope is there to listen and not judge. 

What motivates you to come back to Robin’s Hope every week? 

The thing that motivates me to go back to Robins Hope every week is being around my peers and to have people who understand. 

August 2023 | Euna D.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your story. 

I am an artist, a baker, and an empath. A harpist, an active listener, and a fast learner. I have a diagnosis of Dissociative Identity Disorder, and I am a trauma survivor.  

How did you first hear about Robin’s Hope?  What does Robin’s Hope mean to you now? 

I first found Robin’s Hope on a flyer in the back of the RBHA CSU. The flyer was old, the address was wrong, and I knew I needed to be there. I can honestly say that Robin’s Hope saved my life. If it wasn’t for this place and these people, I wouldn’t be able to get up everyday. To me Robin’s Hope means support, compassion, and acceptance.  

What is one memory of Robin’s Hope that stands out or one accomplishment you have made that stands out for you? 

The first time we played “Yes, and…” (a group storytelling improv game). Everyone was cooperative and participatory. We started with a hermit Llama in the forest and ended with a sticky, dirty Llama navigating a hot air balloon trying to find Robin’s Hope. There was a pick up truck and some hitchhiking in there somewhere, too. We encouraged each other, laughed together, and it was beautiful.  

What is your favorite group (or most impactful)?  Why? 

I don’t have a favorite group at Robin’s Hope. Sometimes we talk about trauma and/or distress, sometimes we play games, sometimes we make art and have open discussions. As a peer run program, we decide what we need everyday. Coping skills at 3pm but someone is having a mental health crisis? Let’s talk about that instead. Don’t feel like setting life goals at 2:15pm? Let’s play bingo. Routines and schedules are great, and sometimes we’re just people.  

What makes Robin’s Hope unique? 

There is no place like home, and as of yet there is no copy cat recipe for Robin’s Hope. I’ve attended a lot of support groups, and I have been in therapy for decades. I had never found a place to call home before I found the healing heard. I came here to be fixed, and for the first time in my life was told I wasn’t broken. Robin’s Hope didn’t teach me how to be a “normal” person. They taught me how to love and respect myself as I am (with a dash of self awareness as well as a growth mindset). We hear each other and heal each other. You don’t find that anywhere else.  

What motivates you to come back to Robin’s Hope every week? 

Robin’s Hope is my healing, my grounding, and my reality check. This place and these people are my stable solid foundation. The healing heard is my safe place even when nowhere else is.