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Recovery Month ~ Frederick Buford: When Recovery Becomes Full Circle

Frederick began with TEECH as an intern, resulting in a full-time employee. Frederick shared his goals by identifying his limitations. Supervision and education are the vehicles that assisted Frederick with his confidence level, which has resulted in Frederick maintaining 4 ½ years of employment with TEECH Foundation, long-term recovery, financial stability, reunification with family, and thinking and behavior change.    


Fredrick faced many challenges at the beginning of his recovery because of the wreckage of his past.

The primary issues were with his children, siblings, and family members. During the challenging times, he maintained his recovery by obtaining the necessary skills and tools to stay focused on his goals. Frederick gained the ability to become accountable and productive by first realizing he needed to work on himself if he wanted to accomplish the goals, he set for himself. 


Frederick's desire to be accepted by his family caused strains in his recovery, employment, and other areas of his life because he had limited boundaries and guidance, which caused him to become overwhelmed. He wanted to be everything to everybody causing his goals to suffer. So, he made hard decisions that were needed if he wanted to get back to the positive path he had created for himself. Frederick started to understand the co-dependent relationship with his children and family, and he needed to build a healthy relationship to remain a reductive citizen in society.  Frederick has since addressed issues that hindered his productivity and executing his goals. 


Thus far, Frederick has maintained his recovery, become financially stable, has a brand new 2024 vehicle, obtained his housing, and reunited with his family. He is a productive and responsible member of society.  


In addition, Frederick has obtained his Recovery Coaching Certification and entered college followed by getting his Certified Recovery Specialist Certification which allowed him to be more effective when serving the participants. Fredericks's accomplishments did not go unnoticed in addition to being a recovery coach and educator he became a ROSC coordinator and Narcan Trainer for the TEECH Drug Overdose Program.


Frederick said he knows he cannot fix the past, but he can create a better future with his loved ones. He said the most inspiring thing that has happened is being there for his grandchildren. He said he can now coach, mentor, and guide them into society in a productive manner. Frederick stated it touched his heart when his grandson requested that he be at his graduation and help him move into his college dorm. Life showed up well for Frederick as he continues to build a healthy relationship with his children, siblings, and other family members.

Frederick and his grandson on college move-in day.




If you would like to be a part of our efforts and how we impact the community, please consider donating to our efforts. Please visit www.teechfoundation1.org/giving

*Funded in whole or in part by the Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery.

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