Heartland Recovery

After high school Eric embraced the “party lifestyle.” Drinking and chasing pleasure were what life was about. Years later warning signs began to appear in his life as alcohol slowly took control. He stopped eating altogether, choosing alcohol over food. His friends noticed, one of them a Heartland alumnus encouraged him to seek help at Heartland. When Eric arrived, he experienced something unexpected — genuine love and a clear challenge to examine his walk with Christ. “I knew who Jesus Christ was and I thought I was a follower, but actually I believe I was just a fan,” he said, describing the moment his faith became real.

Today, Eric credits Jesus as the foundation of his transformation. “I rely on Him… He’s changed my life,” he shares. Through Heartland, he’s learned what true relationships look like — putting others first, serving instead of being served, and building a community grounded in accountability and love.

If you’re struggling with addiction or feel trapped in a lifestyle you can’t escape, Eric is a reminder that hope is real and change is possible. Take the step he took — reach out, ask for help, and let Jesus rebuild what was broken.

“My addiction went too far when I chose it over my family… I would literally start fights with my wife just to go get high.” After realizing that prison offered no true reform, he turned to Heartland Recovery to escape a destructive cycle of guilt and isolation.

Through the program, Harold learned how to come to terms with his hatred and self loathing letting God come and heal the broken parts of his life. Harold graduates with a sense of purpose and a restored marriage, looking toward a bright future. Proving that redemption is possible even after decades of loss. “It’s worth it to change your life. It’s absolutely worth it to turn to God.”

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Reach out to Heartland Recovery or find a local support system today to begin your journey toward a new life.

Anthony shares his 45-year journey through addiction, incarceration, and second chances. He first came to Heartland in 2005 under the mentorship of Pastor Charlie, but he eventually returned to old patterns after choosing a “lukewarm” path. After a decade in prison, he returned to Heartland at age 63 with a renewed heart, realizing that God doesn’t just want a part of us—He wants everything.

His testimony is a reminder that it is never too late to surrender.”God want you for himself… He want all of you because he gave it all. He want you to give it all.” Anthony is focusing on being a disciple of Jesus Christ, no longer drifting between worlds but standing firm in his faith. “I am a disciple of Jesus Christ and willing to obey him, carry out his ministry, and become like Him in the process.”

If you or a loved one are ready to move from “lukewarm” to a life of purpose, Heartland Recovery is here. Our 12-month residential program provides the foundation for life change through the Gospel.

Seth’s introduction to alcohol began early and seemingly harmless at age 14 and grew gradually throughout high school and college. Once out from under his parents’ roof, drinking took over to the point that he stopped attending classes and drifted through life without purpose. By May 2024, his marriage was falling apart, he felt aimless, and an arrest landed him in jail — it was a wake-up call he didn’t expect. When offered the chance to come to Heartland, Seth remembered Heartland from his childhood: meals at the Solid Rock Café, visits to Dr. Nickerson, and stories of the men’s program. He took the opportunity.

Through daily discipleship and classes like relational theology, he began to understand how God sees people and relationships. “Jesus Christ is the center of my life now,” Seth says, recognizing that he no longer has to turn to alcohol when trouble comes. Seth found that God not only rescued him but also restored purpose to his life. “I now know that God has a purpose for my life,” he shares, grateful for a supportive family, Christ-centered relationships, and leaders who walked with him through every challenge.

If you or someone you love is caught in addiction, remember Seth’s message: God loves you, He created you with purpose, and He will meet you right where you are. Take the first step toward freedom — reach out today and begin your own journey of restoration.