On March 17, 2026, Alvis was honored to host our most recent Amethyst Lunch & Learn—an afternoon centered on honesty, courage, and the power of lived experience. Community members, supporters, and staff gathered to listen, learn, and reflect alongside the women of Amethyst as they bravely shared their stories.
The event opened with the poem “The World I Wished I Lived In,” read by Rosanne Rosen. The piece invited attendees to imagine a world rooted in compassion, accountability, and second chances—values that are deeply woven into the work of Amethyst and Alvis.
Following the opening poem, Denise M. Robinson, President and CEO of Alvis, spoke about the strong connection between Amethyst and Alvis and the organization’s commitment to supporting women and families through trauma-informed, evidence-based care. Her remarks highlighted the importance of creating space where women feel supported, believed in, and empowered to rebuild their lives.
About Amethyst
Amethyst is a long-term, trauma-informed recovery program of Alvis designed specifically for women—with or without children—who are working to overcome substance use, mental health challenges, and trauma. Unlike many treatment programs, Amethyst allows mothers to live with their children while in recovery, helping families heal together and remain intact. The program provides comprehensive support including behavioral health treatment, parenting education, recovery housing, workforce development, and child and family services. By addressing the root causes of trauma and addiction and supporting the whole family, Amethyst empowers women to build lasting recovery and create stable, healthy futures for themselves and their children.
The heart of the Lunch & Learn came from the women themselves.
Amethyst client Brittani A shared her piece, “The Nothing Life,” offering an unfiltered look at addiction, survival, and the moment she realized she wanted something more. Reflecting on her past, Brittani described feeling completely lost—while also speaking directly to those who may still be struggling and searching for a way forward.
“Just remember it’s not going to be easy. It’s going to be one of the hardest things you have ever done. I have faith in you. As long as it is the thing you want most in life, you’ve got this. I’ll tell you some places to get help, the rest is up to you. I have to go now. I hope the best for you, and if no one has told you, ‘I love you today,’ I will.”
Her words were a powerful reminder that recovery is hard, deeply personal work—but that compassion, belief, and support can make all the difference.
Amethyst client Nimo M followed with her story, “My Difficult Journey,” sharing her experience as a refugee, survivor, and mother. Her story traced a path through trauma, addiction, and loss, while also highlighting resilience, faith, and the strength it takes to begin again.
Reflecting on where she is today, Nimo shared:
“I’ve turned my life around in a short time. I love the woman I’ve become despite all the pain I’ve endured. I’m not bitter. I thank God for that. He has carried me and brought me out of that cold, pitch black small room. Today I live in the light, taking it one day at a time.”
Her words spoke to the reality of recovery—not as a single moment, but as daily work grounded in hope, healing, and perseverance. She reminded everyone in the room that while healing is not linear, it is possible.
The program concluded with updates from Tracy Kirby, Vice President of Advancement, who shared how community support makes gatherings like this—and the work of Amethyst—possible.
We are incredibly proud of the women who chose to share their stories with such honesty and courage. Their voices are powerful, and their experiences matter. We are also deeply grateful to everyone who attended, listened, and showed up in support of women in recovery.
Events like our Lunch & Learn remind us that when we create space for truth, connection, and understanding, real change can happen—for individuals, families, and our community.
