Downtown Women's Center celebrates graduates of addiction recovery program

AMARILLO, Texas (KVII) — The Downtown Women's Center, a fixture in the community for over 35 years, recently celebrated the graduation of five women from its intensive 12-step program.

The program, which began hosting graduations in 2008, takes approximately two years to complete and focuses on more than just physical recovery from addiction.

Director Kim Pitney emphasized the program's holistic approach, saying, "That's where our program manager really teaches the ladies the condition of their heart, what's going on inside of us that makes us choose to start using drugs and alcohol in the first place."

Pitney noted that graduating from the program marks the beginning of a new journey for the participants.

"We're so proud of them. Our program is not easy, and we always tell everybody this isn't just a place to live; this is a place to heal, a place to grow, and a place to learn," she said.

Among the recent graduates was Dee Hamilton, who expressed gratitude for the support she received.

"It was a hard step to take, but I'm so glad that I did because I am living one of my best lives now," Hamilton said. "The support and the love and the energy that Downtown Women's Center provides for all of us is amazing."

Hamilton is now giving back by helping others on their path to sobriety.

"I chair AA meetings and I will always be a part of DWC one way or another to help the women that are still to come and that are here today," she said.

For those who know a woman battling addiction, the Downtown Women's Center offers resources and support to aid in recovery.