Impact Burleson County is a faith-based organization dedicated to helping individuals and families overcome the challenges of addiction through a Christ-centered 12-step recovery program. Led by J. Pate, the organization focuses on offering a “hand up, not a handout” to those struggling with drug and alcohol dependency. Through spiritual healing, practical support, and community outreach, Impact Burleson County works to restore hope and transform lives, addressing not only the physical and emotional toll of addiction but also its far-reaching effects on families and communities.
Organization: Impact Burleson County
Mission: A Christ-centered 12-step recovery program for drug and alcohol addiction.
Director: J. Pate
Can you start by telling us a little about you and your organization?
Impact Burleson County is a Christ-based 12-step recovery program dedicated to helping individuals struggling with drug and alcohol addiction. Our mission is simple but powerful: to provide a hand up, not a handout. We believe in empowering individuals to overcome their struggles through faith and practical support.
Could you share how addiction has impacted the communities or individuals you serve?
One of the greatest devastations we witness in our communities is the impact addiction has on families. It brings health problems, legal issues, crime, and, most tragically, the loss of children to Child Protective Services (CPS). Addiction doesn’t just affect individuals—it affects entire families and communities. At Impact Burleson, we work to address these challenges holistically.
What advice would you give to mothers who are struggling with their own addiction or supporting a loved one through theirs?
For me, Jesus is the answer to everything. I believe true healing starts there. I’ve witnessed the transformation that faith can bring, accomplishing what man alone cannot. For mothers struggling with addiction, I encourage them to lean on faith and seek support from those who understand their journey.
What unique approaches does your organization take to support families affected by addiction?
At Impact Burleson County, we offer Christ-centered 12-step programs and a women’s study group, which is led by women and tailored to their specific needs. We also partner with local food banks to provide food and clothing and are actively involved in jail ministry. Our approach combines spiritual healing with practical support, ensuring that we meet people where they are.
What do you see as the biggest gaps in addiction support and resources today, and how is your organization addressing them?
One of the biggest gaps is the lack of education for young people about addiction. It’s tough because most parents are hesitant to expose their children to ex-felons, but at the same time, kids may not want to listen to someone who hasn’t lived through addiction. Finding the right balance in educating youth about the realities of addiction is a challenge we are still working on.
How does your organization measure success and impact in your addiction-related programs?
Our ultimate goal is not just to see people free from addiction but also to see them spiritually healed and connected to Jesus. We measure success by the number of years our participants stay sober and clean. Each year, we are encouraged by seeing members achieving more clean time and growing in their faith.
Are there any specific resources, programs, or strategies that you found particularly helpful in dealing with addiction?
Two programs stand out for us: our women’s group and our jail ministry. The women’s group provides a safe space for women to heal together, while the jail ministry gives those incarcerated an opportunity to start their recovery as soon as they are released.
Is there anything you wish more people understood about addiction and the work your organization does?
One thing I wish more people understood is that addiction doesn’t define a person’s future. Just because someone has a history of addiction doesn’t mean they should be written off. I know it’s hard to imagine someone who was once addicted becoming a functioning member of society, but with the power of God, lives can be completely transformed. We see it happen every day.
For more information on how you can support Impact Burleson County, visit their website.
