Recovering Alcoholic Richard Lopez Named Goodwill Industries International 2010 Achiever of the Year
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May 5, 2010
Richard Lopez survived a long battle with alcoholism to go on and be named Goodwill Industries International 2010 Achiever of the Year. The award is recognition of his fight against the disease, as well as his thriving career at Goodwill.
At the age of 36, Lopez and his wife, who was also an alcoholic, both decided to battle their addictions and achieve sobriety not only for their health, but for the future of their family.
As Lopez began to take control of his life, he found that seeking steady employment was his biggest challenge. He eventually found a position with Goodwill Industries as a mailroom clerk and the rest, as they say, is history.
"Goodwill brought out the best in me and had so much to do with my success," said Lopez.
Lopez worked his way up from mailroom clerk to mailroom supervisor, a position which involves the managing of two state contracts through the company.
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) is an excellent resource that provides countless statistics and resource guides outlining what kind of treatment options are available for those seeking help.
Those suffering from alcoholism or alcohol dependency should never feel helpless or alone. There are abundant resources available that provide information regarding treatment and how to locate professionals to assist in the recovery process. In the United States, l in 12 adults abuse alcohol or are alcohol dependent according to NIAAA.
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) has been offering stability and support for people in a safe, confidential setting for decades. Their website offers information on AA and also enables people to locate a support group near them.
