A Success Story: 

 

Dustin Yearout's journey to success began when he was referred to Hope on the Horizon during his partial confinement under the Graduated Reentry (GRE) program. GRE provides individuals with the opportunity to live in the community while still being subject to certain conditions, including wearing an ankle bracelet. This transition can often be filled with fear and anxiety due to the various rules and regulations imposed on individuals new to the program.

 

Having faith in our program, Dustin’s GRE Specialist in Mason County connected him with Hope on the Horizon’s and therefore our network of Releasing County Reentry Support Partners. When our staff reached out to Dustin on October 1, he felt uncertain and was apprehensive about how to ask for help. He expressed concerns about managing relationships with others in his transitional house and understanding the requirements of GRE. At that time, he also had no contact with his two children, which greatly affected his motivation.

 

Our approach at Hope on the Horizon includes a unique component of 60 days of peer mentoring by a mentor with lived experience. This aspect was crucial for Dustin, demonstrating the incredible power of connecting with individuals who understand similar struggles firsthand. With this support, Dustin was also connected to two Releasing County Reentry Support Partners—one to assist him in pursuing his education and the other to provide essential reentry resources. Dustin noted, "You guys inspired me quite a bit to go beyond my comfort zone to achieve my goals."

 

Connecting with his children became a significant project for him during this process. We are happy to announce that Dustin has gained some trust from his grown daughter, who came over for Thanksgiving dinner at his transitional house, and they attended a Narcotics Anonymous meeting together. Natural supports such as family are one of the core principles of peer support, and this reconnection has been a vital part of Dustin’s recovery journey.

 

Over the past two months, Dustin accessed vital reentry resources that included clothing, shoes, a phone card, a laptop, and winter apparel. Additionally, an education navigator from our partner organization visited his transitional house and helped him fill out the FAFSA, secure a disability accommodation appointment, and apply for Olympic College, where he plans to pursue an associate degree in Substance Use Disorder. His first quarter begins on January 2nd, 2025.

 

As of today, following the completion of his 60 days of mentoring, Hope on the Horizon is proud to announce that Dustin has not only met the basic GRE requirements but has exceeded expectations in supporting his spiritual and emotional development. He has been sober for an impressive 19 months, showcasing his commitment to his recovery journey. Dustin actively engages in drug and alcohol treatment and mental health counseling. He participates in Celebrate Recovery at Gateway Christian Fellowship once a week and volunteers with the cleanup crew there. Additionally, he attends Narcotics Anonymous meetings fifteen times a week.

 

Dustin’s story exemplifies the transformative power of support, connection, and resilience. Dustin's commitment to personal growth after serving 9.5 years in prison, along with nearly two years of sobriety, demonstrates the remarkable achievements that can occur when individuals are given the right tools and encouragement. We are excited to see what the future holds for him as he continues to thrive on his journey toward recovery and success.