Rosecrance recently received grants from the Try-Beta Club and the John M. Drogosz Memorial Fund of the Freeport Community Foundation to support the renovation of a therapeutic ropes course for adolescent clients in residential treatment.
The therapeutic ropes course aligns with Rosecrance’s overall treatment strategy, which focuses on caring for the whole person rather than only their symptoms. Experiential therapies, such as art, music, horticulture and fitness help clients develop new, healthy coping skills such as decision-making, problem solving and organizational skills, and enhance a healthy identity. These outlets also help clients improve social relations and communication skills, and enable them to recognize their self-worth and ability to succeed beyond the treatment program.
According to Anne Boccignone, Executive Director of The Rosecrance Foundation, the ropes course was built in 2007, and needs a full renovation to meet certification and safety standards. For this reason, and due to deterioration from weather and usage, the course is currently closed. The funds will have tremendous impact, enabling Rosecrance to reopen the course at the Rosecrance Griffin Williamson campus.
“Rosecrance is extremely grateful to both Try-Beta and the Drogosz family,” says Boccignone. “Their continued support and commitment to our mission means the world. This new ropes course will be an incredible therapeutic tool for clients as they build on their recovery and well-being.”
The John M. Drogosz Memorial Fund was established nearly seven years ago by Dick and Marianne Drogosz in memory of their son. The fund, which is administered through the Freeport Community Foundation, aims to help non-profit organizations with educational, prevention and/or treatment programs designed for youth dealing with substance use disorders.
The Try-Beta Club is a service organization that has donated money, time and volunteer work for more than four decades. The Club has donated more than half a million dollars to 80 different groups in Winnebago County through the years. Try-Beta has supported Rosecrance programs every year since its founding.