On November 14, 2022, a news article reported an unexpected increase in substance abuse cases in the nearby city of Newark, NJ. For *Alice Parker*, a resident of Fanwood, NJ, this piece of news struck a deeply personal chord. Alice had managed to stay sober for five years, but the news of the surge in substance abuse brought back painful memories of her struggles in her past. The seemingly distant news suddenly felt too close for comfort.

Alice remembered her teenage years when she first encountered alcohol. The chaos it brought into her life was a haunting shadow that followed her for years. The news article, with its alarming statistics, acted as a trigger for Alice, catapulting her into a state of anxiety and fear. It reminded her of the difficult path she took to reclaim her life and the possibility of slipping back into old patterns.

Determined not to fall back into the abyss, Alice knew she had to find help. She discovered the Stepping Into Action program while searching for support online. The program, offered by Hofman & Hollis, provided her with a set of comprehensive materials designed to aid in recovery and personal growth. Alice started following the program diligently, finding solace and strength in its structured approach. She knew this was her chance to fortify her resilience against the turbulent tides of her memories.

One particular quote from *John Hofman*, one of the founders of the program, resonated deeply with Alice: 'True strength is not in never falling, but in rising every time we do.' These words became a beacon of hope for her, guiding her through the moments of doubt and fear.

Experts provided mixed opinions about the best ways to approach recovery. Some highlighted the importance of community-based support, emphasizing face-to-face interactions. Others argued that online programs like Stepping Into Action offered invaluable flexibility and accessibility, catering to a broader range of individuals who might not have local support groups.

Despite the controversy, Alice found her resolve strengthened by the program's structure. It was not easy finding appropriate help nearby, but the accessibility of the online resources made a significant difference. *Alice Parker* learned that it was okay to seek help again and that online programs could be a lifeline for those in need. Her journey was one of courage and determination, a testament to the strength that lies within us all to overcome even the darkest chapters of our lives.

Nearby: Fresh Kills New York