2020 was a very difficult year for many of us but it was an especially challenging year for Damascus Road. In August of 2020 we witnessed the loss of our founder and mentor (Butch Scruggs) due to a massive heart attack.  His wife Joan, with health concerns herself and her personal well being top priority, retired in 2021.  In retirement, Joan acts as a consultant to Damascus Road Recovery as she still has a wealth of knowledge to share and is still involved with the Board of Directors.

Butch had a vision and prepared Dwayne and I for this situation for a long time. We, along with Jason, Jimmy and Ashley, have a sincere desire to carry on Butch’s legacy and continue to serve the hopeless, suffering alcoholic and addict. Our goal and aspirations are to continue Butch’s vision and maintain this program’s level of treatment and to prosper in the coming years.

As DRR has ministered to thousands of addicts and their families, many have come, taking all they can, giving back nothing. As DRR is a 501(c)(3), faith-based Program, our business model requires 20% of operational costs come from donations. This is falling very short. DRR has truly been blessed, but the need is great and resources to provide this level of care are greatly needed. Other programs our size have 12-15 on Staff. I cannot put into words the dedication of our small staff (3 full time and 2 part time) that does so much for so many.

Due to the pandemic of opiates, heroin, prescription pain medication, fentanyl, and psychoactive medication, suboxone, methadone, etc., clients are coming younger and sicker. This population is hard to get in treatment, keep in treatment and treat. The long-term withdrawals are so severe that many leave against Staff advice and return to their active addiction. Some will die!