For over 16 years, Recovery Outreach Services LLC (ROS) has been a guiding light, offering a path to recovery. Recovery Outreach Services LLC was formed in October 2006. Nina Smart-Dixon came to the agency as a staff counselor a year later in October 2007, after having already worked in the field of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment for 13 years.
In July 2008, Nina Smart-Dixon, a woman with a deep passion for helping others, seized the opportunity to acquire ROS through a “sweat equity” agreement. Since then, she has worn the dual hats of owner and clinical director.
ROS is more than just a treatment center; it’s a family. Its mission is to provide customized treatment services to those seeking recovery. Their team of around 10 individuals embodies a wealth of experience and expertise. Certified SUD counselors provide guidance, while mental health therapists delve deeper into the emotional aspects of addiction. Diagnosticians ensure accurate assessments, and peer specialists, with their own lived experiences, offer invaluable support. Batterer intervention specialists address the complexities of domestic violence, creating a safe and supportive environment.
The journey for ROS hasn’t been without its challenges. Just like the individuals they serve, the organization has weathered its share of ups and downs. Yet, their commitment to their mission remains unwavering. Maintaining certification through the Missouri Department of Mental Health is a testament to their dedication to quality care. Becoming a treatment provider for Greene County Treatment Court in 2013 and continuing to serve there speaks volumes about the trust they’ve earned. Perhaps the most remarkable feat was keeping their doors open and serving clients during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through it all, ROS has persevered, a beacon of hope even in the most challenging times.
ROS understands that recovery is a multifaceted journey. They offer a comprehensive range of services, either directly or through trusted partners. From initial assessments to individual and group counseling, medically assisted treatment (MAT) with medications like Vivitrol and naltrexone, and on-site urinalysis testing, ROS addresses a client’s physical and psychological needs. But their support goes beyond clinical interventions. ROS offers practical peer support services, helping clients navigate the complexities of daily life, from securing food stamps to applying for Medicaid.
Recognizing the importance of a strong support network, ROS fosters relationships with inpatient treatment centers for those needing a higher level of care. Additionally, they collaborate with community programs like Better Life in Recovery and Good Dads, creating a holistic approach to healing.
A recent and exciting development is ROS’s partnership with Redeemed Lives (redeemed-lives.org). Together, they’re creating innovative ways to engage the community and raise funds for client vouchers. These vouchers will bridge the financial gap, making life-changing treatment accessible to those who might otherwise struggle to afford it.
Substance abuse doesn’t discriminate. It’s a harsh reality that ROS confronts every day. Our community, at the crossroads of the United States, faces significant challenges with methamphetamine, fentanyl, opiates, and alcohol.
In February 2024, ROS embarked on a new and impactful project – First Lady’s House. This recovery-supported housing program honors the memory of Nina Smart-Dixon’s longtime pastor’s wife, First Lady Bobbie Knox of Deliverance Temple Ministries. This first house provides a safe and supportive environment for five women on their path to recovery, with the hope of expanding to serve many more in the future.
Nina and her team at ROS are relentless in their pursuit of helping others. They are constantly seeking new ways to grow and expand their services, reaching out to a wider population in need. The road ahead is paved with challenges – the stigma surrounding addiction, the shame it can cause, and the financial constraints that prevent many from seeking help. Yet, ROS remains undeterred. Through their dedication and by forging new partnerships, they fuel the hope of a healthier and addiction-free community.
ROS is a testament to the power of compassion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference. They are a beacon of hope, shining brightly for those seeking a path to recovery.
by UniteNews Staff
