Though more than a decade has passed since Rachelle was in the throes of addiction, the hopelessness she felt then is never far from her mind. She never takes it for granted that the sense of fulfillment she feels now– as a working mom with a son who is thriving and a job she loves– once seemed completely out of reach.

“I was wandering aimlessly out there,” she says. “I had no idea that I could be where I am today.”

That lived experience is an important part of what makes Rachelle so effective in her role as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, or a CADC. Rachelle works in the criminal justice system, helping people who are incarcerated connect to community resources and build the skills they need for a sustainable recovery.

“I feel so empowered that I’m actually making a difference in this world”

Rachelle is a part of the growing field of Direct Support, ensuring that Mainers with age-related, physical, behavioral, intellectual and cognitive health needs have the support they need to stay safe, independent and empowered to achieve their personal goals. There are thousands of openings with employers throughout the state. Training is widely available, and many employers offer flexible scheduling options.

Rachelle’s first-hand understanding of what substance use disorder is like helps break down the walls with the clients she serves.

“They can open up, be themselves, and be vulnerable,” she says. “And seeing that someone has been through it before and come out on the other side provides hope that they can also recover.”

Rachelle derives satisfaction from knowing that she’s offering a critical dose of empathy, compassion, and a judgement-free space for individuals who have hit their lowest low.

“A lot of these people have been living with substance use disorder for a really long time. They’ve burned a lot of bridges. As soon as they know that someone actually cares and is there to listen, it’s a great thing.”

Seeing people brighten with hope and move towards recovery and healing is part of what makes it so meaningful. “When I see them grow, even just a little bit, I see that I’m changing someone’s life,” she says.

Having the ability to give back has supported Rachelle’s own recovery.

“I continue to grow and learn on a daily basis,” she says. “It gives me the opportunity to feel like I matter. I feel so empowered that I’m actually making a difference in this world.”

To learn more about full-time, part-time and per diem opportunities in your community, go to Mainecareerswithpurpose.org. Follow @MaineCareerswithPurpose on Facebook and Instagram.