Lydia Grows from Surviving to Serving
Before coming to ICC, Lydia spent ten years battling addiction. She experienced homelessness and lived day to day without a clear path forward. Sobriety changed everything — and with it came a new question: what now?
That answer began at ICC.
After hearing about the Drug and Alcohol Counselor Training program, Lydia decided to take a step forward. She connected with instructor Dan Kelts early on, and that connection made all the difference.
Starting college was unfamiliar territory. Lydia had not graduated from high school and did not know how to navigate enrollment, scheduling, or the expectations of being a student. Instead of letting fear stop her, she asked for help and committed fully to the process.
At times, Lydia questioned whether she truly belonged in college. Balancing school, work, recovery, and motherhood often felt overwhelming, especially during moments when self-doubt resurfaced.
But she did not have to face those challenges alone.
Our employees stepped in to support and encourage her every step of the way. Dan became a steady source of motivation, reminding her that growth often begins by facing difficult things head-on. His words echo in her mind every time doubt creeps in: There’s something in YOU that this field needs.
He once told her, “Nobody is coming to save you, only you can do that, Lydia.”
That message helped her move from relying on others to trusting herself, building independence and confidence that now carries into every part of her life.
What once felt impossible became reality. Lydia earned a place in Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and will graduate on the President’s List.
Today, Lydia is working in the field where she once sought help, supporting others through recovery. Her next step is continuing her education at Aurora University, with plans to expand her impact through social work and addiction-focused care.
Her message to others who feel unsure or afraid to start is simple.
Do the thing that scares you. Even if you doubt yourself, take the first step anyway. You might surprise yourself.
Lydia, Drug and Alcohol Counselor Training Student
Lydia’s story is proof that growth begins the moment you choose to try. As she puts it, I can do whatever I put my mind to; ICC taught me that.