The 21st District Recovery Court is proving that second chances work. Join us for an inspiring conversation with Judge Deanna Bell Johnson and Executive Director Connie Martin about a Franklin-based program that's transforming lives through comprehensive addiction treatment.

With a near-100% graduation rate and costs that are one-third of traditional incarceration ($15,000 vs. $45,000 annually), this two-year recovery program serves individuals in Williamson County's criminal justice system. Participants receive intensive inpatient treatment, mental health therapy, trauma counseling, and employment support—all while maintaining accountability through weekly court sessions and regular drug testing.

Judge Johnson shares powerful stories of transformation, including her Christmas tradition where participants celebrate the holidays sober for the first time in decades. Connie Martin explains how addressing childhood trauma and providing comprehensive mental health services creates lasting recovery. You'll also hear about the program's celebrity support from country music stars like Jelly Roll, Tim McGraw, and Martina McBride who've helped raise critical funds.

Key Takeaways:

• Why two-year programs succeed where shorter treatments fail
• How mental health therapy addresses the root causes of addiction
• The cost-effectiveness of treatment versus incarceration
• Ways Middle Tennessee residents can support recovery court initiatives

This local nonprofit is changing families, reducing crime, and proving that investing in people creates better outcomes than warehousing them in prisons.

21st District Recovery Court website and donation information: https://21stdc.org/

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