Raffle Underway to Support New Men’s Addiction Recovery Home in Henderson, Kentucky

In the heart of Henderson, KY, a transformative journey is underway for women battling addiction.

If you haven't heard of Women's Addiction Recovery Manor (WARM), you're not alone. Even lifelong residents and those involved in the recovery community are often surprised to learn about this safe haven with a proven track record of changing lives.

When my co-workers and I got the chance to visit WARM, I wasn’t sure what to expect. As we pulled into the parking lot, we were surprised to see women tending to the grounds and enjoying the fresh air. The property included a community room, a spacious facility, and apartments. As we stepped inside, we were greeted with happy smiles, a cozy atmosphere, and even a big fluffy therapy dog named King—definitely not what you anticipate when walking into an addiction facility. We were then invited to the conference room to chat with the administration.

Every day, countless individuals find themselves trapped in cycles of dependency. Back in the 1980s, Dale Sights was one of those individuals. Now the President-CEO of the Center for Addiction Recovery, Inc., which he helped launch in 2007, Dale’s story is one of personal conviction and redemption. In 1987, his family urged him to go to rehab, and though he went reluctantly, that decision changed not just his life but the lives of thousands of others across Kentucky and beyond.

Once he completed rehab, Dale recognized the importance of community and support. For over 25 years, he’s attended AA meetings almost daily. But he knew he wanted to do more than just focus on his own recovery—he wanted to help others too.

Dale went on to help establish Recovery Kentucky, an initiative aimed at helping Kentuckians overcome substance abuse and regain control of their lives, ultimately leading to stable housing. With a heart for women in addiction, especially single mothers, he saw the impact of addiction on the women in Henderson and helped found WARM in 2007. WARM is a free inpatient recovery program specifically designed for adult women seeking to overcome addiction.

During our meeting, we spoke with Nicole Frields, who now serves as the Vice President-COO, and Sarah Nicholson, who now serves as the Executive Assistant, both of whom shared their own recovery journeys. Dale explained how perceptions of addiction have shifted over the years. Dale explained how perceptions of addiction have shifted over the years. When he got sober in the '80s, he felt embarrassed about his time in rehab. But after openly discussing his recovery at a Rotary meeting, he felt a sense of freedom—and he wanted to share that feeling with others. At WARM, the women take pride in their progress and openly discuss their experiences with addiction.

Nicholson, who has worked the program at WARM, emphasized how it differs from other rehab facilities. She explained that it’s peer-led, so you’re supported by people who truly understand what you’re going through. WARM fosters a positive, loving environment where it’s about more than just treatment; it’s a community. Residents have responsibilities—they cook, clean, participate in classes, and mentor. They can stay for up to a year, allowing them to build a solid foundation for their recovery.

WARM's recovery model has proven successful, and it has participated in an ongoing research study by the University of Kentucky.WARM's recovery model has proven successful, and it has participated in an ongoing research study by the University of Kentucky. This approach has even been replicated in centers across Kentucky, including men’s facility in Bowling Green which is an extension of the WARM organization.

Back in 2022, Zion United Church of Christ held its last service and generously donated the church building, parsonage, and surrounding properties to WARM’s parent organization. This former parsonage is set to become the Men's Unity Lodge, a transitional housing option for men who are new in their recovery journey and looking for safe and supportive sober living.

WARM’s funding comes from a mix of grants, the Department of Corrections, HUD, and even SNAP benefits. However, renovating the new property wasn’t part of the budget, so they need to raise the necessary funds. The new property, built in the 1800s, has a lot of character but needs some work to become a functioning facility. To help with renovation costs, Dale reached out to Larry Bennett from Audubon Chrysler Center in Henderson, and Larry stepped up in a big—no, HUGE—way. Introducing the Drive to Recovery Raffle.

Time is running out to make a real impact in our community and support those on their recovery journey! With the purchase of a $25 ticket, you could win a prize donated by Audubon Chrysler.  Without Audubon Chrysler's generosity, this would not be possible!

5 Grand Prizes

1. $30,000 cash prize Plus 4 Brand New Vehicles
2. 2024 Jeep Compass Altitude 4x4
3. 2023 Jeep Wrangler Willy's 4x4
4. 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland 4x4
5. 2023 Grand Wagoneer Series II 4x4

    100 Top Prizes:
Choice of a Blackstone Griddle or a 65" TV

Final Day to Purchase Tickets: Midnight, December 31, 2024

Your ticket purchase helps fund the development of the Men’s Unity Lodge, which provides essential housing and support for men in recovery, along with other local recovery initiatives. Don’t wait—your support can truly change lives! Thank you for contributing to a brighter future for our community!

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, there is help available. Click here to reach out or learn more about the WARM facility in Henderson.