On November 24, 2022, a news story broke about the sudden closure of a major factory in a nearby town. For *Sam Perkins*, a longtime resident of Boylston Creek, North Carolina, the news struck a chord in unexpected ways. Sam had spent years working in a similar factory before it had shut down, throwing him into a downward spiral of alcohol abuse.

The factory closure in the news brought back a flood of memories and emotions for Sam. He remembered the uncertainty, the unemployment, and how he had turned to alcohol to cope. For years, he had struggled to regain control over his life. The breaking news triggered something deep within him, a mix of anger and sadness, reminding him that he had yet to fully conquer his past demons.

Determined to change, Sam decided to seek help. He came across the Stepping Into Action program on hofmanhollis.com and decided to give it a try. The program offered a structured way to deal with his issues and reclaim his life. Sam applied himself to the program with fervor, using its materials to work through his past traumas and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

Sam’s turnaround was not immediate, but gradually, he began to notice changes. 'The program gave me tools that I never knew I needed,' Sam admitted one day. 'I realized that I had the power to change my life if I committed to it.'

However, opinions from experts about the effectiveness of such programs were mixed. Some praised the structure and accessibility of online programs, especially for people in remote areas like Boylston Creek. 'Online programs offer convenience and accessibility,' noted Dr. *Jane Hargrove*, a well-known psychologist. 'For many, they're a lifeline.'

Others, however, were skeptical. 'The lack of in-person interactions can be a significant drawback,' argued Dr. *Tom Franklin*. 'People need more than just online content; they need community and face-to-face support.'

Despite the mixed opinions, for Sam, joining an online program proved to be a turning point. It reminded him that help could come in various forms and that proximity wasn't a necessity for assistance. 'In the end, taking that step was the best decision of my life,' Sam reflected. 'It was hard to find anything nearby, so the online option was a real blessing.'

Nearby: River Falls South Carolina, Gap Creek South Carolina