A Season for Growth, Awareness, and Hope

April is a powerful reminder of growth, transformation, and healing—three themes that resonate deeply at  Serenity House Counseling Services. As spring brings a sense of renewal, it also marks Alcohol Awareness Month, a time to educate, support, and share the hope of recovery with our community.

Alcohol Awareness Month—Why It Matters

Alcohol Awareness Month opens the door to conversations that are often uncomfortable—but incredibly necessary.

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) affects millions of Americans. Nearly 1 in 10 adults in the U.S. struggles with alcohol use, and yet many don’t realize they meet the criteria for a disorder. Why? Because alcohol misuse has become so normalized in our culture that its warning signs are often overlooked or dismissed.

This month helps us change that.

By talking more openly about alcohol’s impact, we can begin to reduce the stigma that keeps so many from seeking help. When people feel less ashamed, they’re more likely to speak up—and step into recovery.

It’s also important to remember that excessive alcohol use is the leading preventable cause of death in the U.S. It contributes to serious health issues like liver disease, cancer, and mental health disorders, and plays a role in DUIs, domestic violence, and other community safety concerns. Awareness leads to earlier intervention—and early intervention can save lives.

Alcohol Awareness Month also equips parents, caregivers, educators, and employers with tools to recognize the signs of alcohol misuse and start supportive conversations. Just as importantly, it’s a time to highlight stories of recovery, share resources, and remind people that they’re not alone—and that healing is always within reach.

Programs That Save Lives

At Serenity House, we offer a full continuum of care to meet individuals where they are in their recovery journey, including:

• 90-Day Extended Residential Programs

• Outpatient and Intensive Outpatient Services

• DUI and Anger Management Classes

• Adolescent-Specific Treatment Programs

• Halfway Houses & Recovery Homes
  

Our programs go beyond treatment. They’re designed to build self-sufficiency, job readiness, and long-term recovery success—empowering people to reclaim their lives and reintegrate into their communities with strength and dignity.

CFFRV Grant Powers New Outreach Van

We're proud to announce that Serenity House, in partnership with AID, has received the Better Together Community Grant from the Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley.

This $75,000 grant will fund a street outreach mobile van—bringing critical mental health and substance use services directly to those in need, right where they are. The van will be fully equipped to support private, one-on-one interactions and offer compassionate, judgment-free care.

Mark Your Calendar: DuPage Giving Days Begin May 1

We’re counting down to Giving DuPage Days—a special time when our community comes together to fuel local impact.

Every dollar raised goes directly toward programs that save lives: recovery housing, counseling, education, and support for individuals and families affected by substance use.

Your support makes this possible.

Stay Connected

Whether you're navigating recovery yourself or supporting someone who is, connection is key. Serenity House offers free weekly support meetings, both virtually and in person:

Virtual SMART Recovery Meeting

Every Saturday | 9:00–10:00 AM Zoom ID: 836 0334 0913 | Passcode: 408862 Email: Danny.sourbis@dupagerosc.org or Blake.worman@dupagerosc.org

SMART Recovery Meeting (In-Person)

Every Wednesday | 1:00–2:00 PM 1506 E Roosevelt Road, Wheaton, IL Email: Danielle.heffernan@dupagerosc.org

Refuge Recovery Meeting (Virtual)

Every Saturday | 10:30–11:30 AM Zoom ID: 821 1089 6021 | Passcode: 048396 Email: Danny.sourbis@dupagerosc.org or Blake.worman@dupagerosc.org

Veterans Support Group (Hybrid)

Every Thursday | 6:30–7:30 PM Serenity House, 891 S. Rohlwing Road, Addison, IL Zoom ID: 823 6537 5281 | Passcode: 079147 Email: Jim.murphy@dupagerosc.org | Call: 630-660-2656

Be Part of the Change

Whether it’s through a donation, volunteering your time, or sharing our message with others—you can help change the story for someone in recovery.

Visit www.serenityhouse.com to learn more about how you can support our mission. Because recovery doesn’t just happen—it’s built together.