“Don't dwell on what went wrong. Instead, focus on what to do next. Spend your energies on moving forward toward finding the answer.” - Denis Waitley
Peer Support Leader Anthony Kamm is a past graduate of the Second Chance program featured in the Instilling Change series in March of 2022. It was important to Kamm to give back because of where he has been, what he has seen, and what he has experienced. In 2019 while locked up in prison, Kamm realized his inability to follow rules and his lifestyle in the drug culture was anything but healthy. With this mindset change, Kamm decided a 2-year drug treatment plan was his best option.
Taking steps of owning his addictions and problems was rough. Kamm was ashamed and wanted a complete change in his life. Kamm had been lying to himself and stated, “when the smoke cleared,” he knew taking accountability was the first step in the right direction to recovery. Kamm was released from prison in 2021 to Heartland Center for Behavioral Change (HCBC) during Covid, which proved to be beneficial for his successful reentry back into the community. While there, HCBD referred Kamm to Second Chance.
With barriers such as employment, housing, job security, low wages, and a criminal history, Kamm relied on Second Chance for support and motivation. He was able to land his first job at KC Hide Inc. From there on, life started to look more promising. He funneled the energy needed for success. Throughout the program, Kamm learned how to communicate his thoughts and feelings in a healthy manner and navigate through life’s obstacles.
Since graduating from Second Chance, Kamm wanted to give back to Second Chance by facilitating Peer Support groups. He enjoys passing along the education he has acquired recounting his real-life experiences, sharing how his life has changed for the better. Being able to relate to participants and help them overcome barriers has been the most rewarding.
Kamm noted, “Peer Support is effective and much needed.” Participants in the program want to hear real-life experiences of success stories. “If you haven’t gotten dirty, how do you expect people who are currently going through it to relate?” Kamm stated. If you have been where they are and have walked in their shoes, participants are more receptive to listen and to realize that they, too, can make a lifestyle change.
With a smile, Kamm proudly stated, “Second Chance brings the best real-world experience in a healthy environment.”
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