A Story of Hope: Discovering the ‘Why’ Behind Addiction
“HopeQuest truly is different!” We never grow tired of hearing this from men and their families. Throughout the coming months, HopeQuest is highlighting the seven pillars that define The HopeQuest Difference. In August, we are spotlighting our commitment to addressing the root causes of addiction, helping men uncover the underlying issues and build a stronger foundation for recovery.
When Robert first came to HopeQuest, he knew he needed to stop engaging in destructive behaviors. But he didn’t understand the contributing factors driving those choices. While he wanted freedom from addiction, he assumed that meant learning better coping strategies, becoming more disciplined, and trying harder. Instead, his time at HopeQuest revealed something far more important. Says Robert, “I went to HopeQuest hoping to break the destructive patterns in my life. I left understanding why I was acting out in the first place. Once I began addressing the deeper issues, I was able to find lasting freedom.”
For decades, Robert carried wounds that few people knew existed. Behind the outward markers of a successful life was a little boy who grew up believing he was unseen, unheard, and unwanted. His childhood was filled with abuse, confusion, and shame, leaving emotional scars that influenced the way he viewed himself, his relationships, and even God. He spent years trying to escape the pain of his past through pornography, marijuana, and gambling. As Robert recalls, anything that provided relief from what he was feeling became appealing. [READ MORE]
SAVE THE DATE
An Evening of Praise and Worship
Plans are underway for Celebrating Freedom 2026! This year’s theme, Hope Begins with a Step, will set the stage for a special evening of praise and worship. Mark your calendar for Friday, November 6, at Woodstock City Church. Admission and dinner are free, with RSVP required. More details coming soon.
TEAM HIGHLIGHTS
A New Face at HopeQuest
We are excited to welcome Thom Coughlin to HopeQuest as our new Director of Partnerships! Thom brings experience in behavioral health and ministry, having previously served on staff at North Point Community Church. His relationship with HopeQuest spans nearly a decade, during which he has referred a number of men to our programs.
Originally from upstate New York, Thom now lives in Roswell with his wife, Karen. The two met through the recovery community and have each been sober for 14 years. A fun fact about Thom: He is the youngest of 13 siblings. His two sisters are the oldest, followed by 11 brothers in a row, including Thom.
Celebrating Lauren Garofalo, LPC
We are pleased to recognize Primary Therapist Lauren Garofalo, who officially earned her Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credential on July 8! Lauren returned to school at age 58 to pursue her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, a journey that strengthened both her clinical expertise and her dependence on God.
“I truly could not have done it without the Holy Spirit’s counsel and guidance,” says Lauren. “I am grateful my two daughters were part of the process and witnessed firsthand that resilience can be found at any age or stage of life. We are not our circumstances!”
ADMISSIONS REPORT
In July, HopeQuest welcomed THIRTEEN new clients across our residential, HIOP, IOP, and outpatient counseling programs! Behind each number is a person choosing hope and taking meaningful steps toward a new way of life. Please keep these individuals in your prayers as they pursue healing, growth, and freedom through Christ.
