By Kali Fields, Director, Grassroots Advocacy
All too often, people successfully complete a recovery program only to feel overwhelmed, alone and frustrated when they leave the community they learned to thrive in. Sober living homes can be an important step into long-term recovery, and Aurora Sober Living is creating that pathway in Colorado.
Aurora Sober Living was founded by Karis Shockley after she moved to the area four years ago to focus on her sobriety and never left. Karis has dedicated her life to helping other individuals with substance use disorder find the resources and help they need and deserve. She and her partner, Sheri Blosser, run the sober living home while also raising two young boys.
Prior to founding Aurora Sober Living, Karis, who has a master’s degree in education, was a schoolteacher. Karis shared with Voices that while in her addiction, she couldn’t function and was unable to be fully present for her students. Living a life in recovery has shown Karis the importance of community, love, and accountability—that is what she provides for her clients.
Aurora Sober living provides a safe living environment for people suffering from addiction and seeking a life in long term recovery. They keep clients accountable by requiring the passing of random drug and alcohol screenings on a frequent basis, curfews and chores, two mandatory house/program meetings per week, and working, volunteering or attending school at least 30 hours per week, alongside a 12 step program of their choice. Their community serves up to 51 clients and they have 3 homes for men and 2 for women.
Despite the strength of their program and the dedication of their clients, Aurora Sober Living has seen clients fall back into addiction after getting injured, going to the hospital, and being prescribed opioids. That is why they are a member of Voices for Non-Opioid Choices and an endorser of the NOPAIN Act.
The NOPAIN Act would ensure people with acute pain have non-opioid pain management options, and are not unnecessarily prescribed opioid pills. If patients and providers have these options, they can help stop the cycle of addition. The legislation is vital for people in recovery, as no one should fear a surgical procedure or doctor’s visit because they may be prescribed opioids and risk relapse.
Karis, Sheri, and the whole Aurora Sober Living team are doing amazing work for the people of Colorado and we are proud to have them as a member of Voices for Non-Opioid Choices. To learn more about their work visit their website here: https://aurorasoberliving.com/
