Dear Friends of MSCL House,

For many reasons, winter can be a particularly challenging time for those in addiction recovery. Handling triggers during holiday parties, being stuck indoors, and not having the means to enjoy the myriad of snow activities offered in our valley can be very difficult. Thankfully, this was not the case for MSCL residents this winter. Your generous contributions to our Wellness Fund and the donations of ski tickets and equipment from Sun Valley Resort and Sturtevants made it possible for our residents to experience winter outdoor activities such as skiing and snowboarding—some for the very first time. Partaking in activities such as these can be emotionally rewarding and beneficial in helping those in recovery to overcome the winter blues, which often trigger negative coping behaviors and increase the risk of relapse. Addiction is a work in progress, and at MSCL House, we offer continuous support with relapse prevention strategies, such as wellness activities and personal fitness that support residents in their recovery.

Another essential aspect of our program is community service. MSCL House residents take part in organized community volunteer work to connect with their neighbors and give back to the community. This winter, residents volunteered for the Wood River Chamber of Commerce Hailey Ice Sculpting competition, teaming up with NAMI to create a bluebird sculpture and the Hailey Women's Softball Team's giant softball.

With the arrival of warmer weather, residents are working on the raised garden beds at  MSCL House—weeding, mulching, and turning the soil in preparation for growing vegetables this summer. Last year’s crops yielded an abundance of carrots, beets, and tomatoes. This is one way our residents are taking charge of their own needs for healthy food and restorative therapy—getting dirty and eating clean is good for the body and soul.

In May we look forward to celebrating the success of our first resident graduate for completing his studies at the College of Southern Idaho. We could not be prouder of him for working hard on his recovery while holding down multiple jobs, excelling in school, and persevering through the pandemic. Your contributions to the Education Fund have made this young man’s achievement a reality.

As always, thank you for all of your support over the years, we couldn't do this work without you.

Sincerely,

Sonya Wilander

Executive Director

Meet Scott Lucas, our current Board Chair. A 20-year resident of the Wood River Valley, Scott became involved with MSCL House in its earliest days, stemming from his work with AA in the jail system. Scott had observed firsthand the obstacles that men in recovery face: societal, economic, and cultural pressures; the stigma of mental health care; damaged relationships; and the lack of a support system.

“Meeting someone in this condition, understanding that they had almost no chance at a decent life, and then watching them overcome those hurdles to become a whole person again, is indescribable,” says Scott.

With his belief that a supportive, structured environment in recovery is important for change, and as the leader of MSCL House’s board, Scott brings a business perspective, helping the organization deliver success, efficacy, and accountability. He is dedicated to expanding our program to help men in our community triumph over addiction and maintain lifelong recovery. Scott delivers a strong message of hope in recovery – that with the right support, living a sober, healthy life is absolutely attainable!

UPCOMING EVENTS

MSCL HOUSE

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Scott S. Lucas, President

Nancy Mann, M.D., Secretary

Richard W. Brown, Treasurer

Maria M. Gerhardt

John S. Miller

John G. Murray

Atty. Lee P. Ritzau

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