The first Volunteers of America “VOA” Family Recovery Court graduate in Jackson County was announced last week! The Family Recovery Court is a voluntary program that works with families who struggle with substance use disorder and are involved in the child welfare system. The immediate goal is sobriety, and the long-term goal is family reunification.
After years of addiction, Lauren Ray was at risk of losing everything — including her newborn son, Remi. She entered VOA's Family Recovery Court (FRC) in March 2025 and began the hard work of taking back her life.
Through accountability, treatment, and support from VOA staff and Judge Clint Harris, she regained stability, and created a safe, loving home for her children.
“Family Recovery Court didn’t just help me get sober, it helped me get my life back," Lauren said.
VOA reported, “We're proud to serve incredible parents like Lauren.”
In Jackson County, families impacted by substance use disorder can find new hope through Volunteers of America’s Family Recovery Court, a program designed to support parents, protect children, and strengthen families through recovery-focused solutions.
Family Recovery Court serves parents involved in the Jackson County child welfare and court systems whose substance use has affected their ability to safely care for their children. Instead of relying solely on traditional court proceedings, the program offers a collaborative, treatment-centered approach that emphasizes accountability, recovery, and family reunification.
The court brings together a dedicated team that includes a judge, treatment providers, child welfare professionals, and recovery support staff. Participants work through structured case plans that may include substance use treatment, regular drug screening, parenting education, and frequent court reviews. Progress is monitored closely, allowing the court to respond quickly to both challenges and successes.
Volunteers of America plays a key role in supporting Jackson County’s Family Recovery Court by providing case management and recovery support services. These services help parents navigate treatment, access community resources, and address barriers such as housing instability, employment needs, and transportation—challenges that are especially significant in rural communities like Jackson County.
Unlike traditional court settings, Family Recovery Court emphasizes encouragement and consistency. Judges meet regularly with participants, offering guidance and reinforcing positive steps forward. Achievements such as clean drug screens, treatment milestones, and increased visitation with children are recognized in court, helping participants build confidence and motivation.
The program’s impact extends beyond parents. For children in Jackson County, Family Recovery Court prioritizes safety while working toward timely reunification whenever possible. By supporting parents in recovery, the court helps create more stable home environments and improves long-term outcomes for children and families.
Local partners say the program also strengthens the county’s overall response to substance use by improving coordination among the courts, treatment providers, and social services. This collaborative approach reduces duplication of services and ensures families receive the support they need when they need it most.
While recovery is not a simple or linear process, Family Recovery Court offers Jackson County families a structured path forward—one rooted in accountability, compassion, and second chances. Through the combined efforts of the court system, Volunteers of America, and community partners, families are being given the opportunity to heal, reunite, and build healthier futures together.
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