Patrick reflects on his struggles with addiction, the support he found at Willingway, and the freedom he’s discovered in recovery
Willingway’s alumni program is more than just staying connected after treatment- it’s a community. We’re here to support, encourage, and celebrate one another throughout every stage of recovery. We believe recovery should be meaningful, but it can also be fun!
From alumni events and reunions to unique activities and experiences, we create opportunities to connect, make memories, practice self-care, and continue growing together. Whether you have 30 days or 30 years, you are never alone in the Willingway alumni community. Recovery doesn’t end at discharge- it’s just the beginning of a new chapter.
Our alumni stay connected through our Willingway Alumni app. This gives you access to alumni news, updates, and stories from across our community. You can find information on meetings, reunions, events, stories, updates from our Alumni Coordinator, and access to our alumni newsletter.
Dakota Ulmen is Willingway’s dedicated alumni coordinator, passionate about keeping alumni connected, supported, and involved long after treatment ends. Dakota believes that recovery doesn’t end at discharge and works to create opportunities for alumni to build connections, give back, celebrate milestones, and continue growing in their recovery. Dakota is a woman in long term recovery and is also a Willingway alum. Outside of work, Dakota enjoys spending time with family, making memories, and staying connected to the people and community that matter most.
Dakota is available to assist alums through regular outreach, community partnerships, and ongoing support. Dakota strives to make sure every alum knows they have a place to turn and a community that cares. Our coordinator is knowledgeable in all-things recovery, and can answer general recovery questions and assist program alumni with help finding:
“Tonight I write this after graduating from Willingway. The education I have received here is and will be far more valuable than the education I got in high school and college. Thanks to all the counselors and the rest of the staff here. If you need and are seeking help for alcohol/ drug addiction, I would highly recommend them.”
“I came to Willingway with my life in chaos. I tried almost everything to get sober, but nothing seemed to work. My experience at Willingway equipped me with the tools I needed to get sober and maintain my sobriety. I would gladly recommend Willingway to anyone who is an addict of any sort.”
“I entered this program absolutely hopeless. After 38 days of being here, I have changed so much. My self-esteem is growing. I can share my feelings. But most of call I have hope and a desire to live thank you Willingway for everything!”
“After multiple trips to rehab facilities, I finally found the one for me! The groups, instruction, and counseling are beyond what I could have expected. I am proud to say that I am a Willingway graduate.”
“Willingway is a beacon of light in the dark path of alcoholism and addiction, as well as shining brightly so that we can feel hope once again. Thank you to Willingway, staff, and members of its program!”
“Willingway has helped me in so many ways on my way to recovery. The staff is so helpful and nice. It’s a really great place to start your road to recovery and sobriety. I would recommend it to anyone who has an addiction.”
Willingway’s alumni newsletter is a free, monthly newsletter distributed through the alumni app. The newsletter offers a monthly touchpoint for staying connected, involved, and supported on the path to lasting sobriety. Each newsletter includes:
