Abstinence-Based, “Durable Recovery” Is the Gold Standard in Behavioral Health.
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Abstinence-Based, “Durable Recovery” Is the Gold Standard in Behavioral Health.

by Jim O'Connor, CADC | February 10, 2026

Latest stories

When Recovery No Longer Protects Recovery
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When Recovery No Longer Protects Recovery

by Jim O'Connor, CADC | February 5, 2026

Meet Jim O’Connor, Founder and Executive Director of Second Story Foundation
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Meet Jim O’Connor, Founder and Executive Director of Second Story Foundation

From his own recovery to leading one of Illinois’ most hopeful new programs, Jim O’Connor is helping men rebuild their lives with work, compassion, and community.

Second Story Foundation Launches First Furrow Fund to Support Men Entering Recovery Housing After Treatment
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Second Story Foundation Launches First Furrow Fund to Support Men Entering Recovery Housing After Treatment

Initiative provides paid transitional work for men leaving treatment and entering recovery housing, with a $50,000 goal to support 20 men in 2026.

Mucking Out Our Stalls From Rock Bottom to Responsibility
MEDIA COVERAGE

Mucking Out Our Stalls From Rock Bottom to Responsibility

Mike and Bill | Sober Not Mature podcast (January 17, 2026)

Jim O’Connor: Federal policy ignores the most perilous weeks of addiction treatment
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Jim O’Connor: Federal policy ignores the most perilous weeks of addiction treatment

by Jim O'Connor, CADC | December 15, 2025

Planned addiction recovery program on Crete horse ranch launches fundraising campaign
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Planned addiction recovery program on Crete horse ranch launches fundraising campaign

Evelyn Lewis | Chicago Tribune / Daily Southtown (December 11, 2025)

Cost-Benefit Model Shows Long-Term Recovery Housing at Ranch Could Save Illinois $113 Million
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Cost-Benefit Model Shows Long-Term Recovery Housing at Ranch Could Save Illinois $113 Million

Independent economic review finds substantial public savings tied to long-term recovery housing at the ranch project

SUPPORT Act Reauthorization Expands Recovery and Workforce Programs in Illinois
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SUPPORT Act Reauthorization Expands Recovery and Workforce Programs in Illinois

Statement from Jim O’Connor, Executive Director of the Second Story Foundation

Second Story Foundation Launches Public Phase of Capital Campaign to Build the 2nd Story Ranch Lodge and Residences 
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Second Story Foundation Launches Public Phase of Capital Campaign to Build the 2nd Story Ranch Lodge and Residences 

Campaign supports construction of a 7,000-square-foot lodge and recovery residence on a 68-acre ranch in south suburban Crete

Jim O’Connor Calls for Immediate Action to Deploy Opioid Settlement Capital
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Jim O’Connor Calls for Immediate Action to Deploy Opioid Settlement Capital

Second Story Foundation leader urges state officials to fix stalled capital funding and strengthen long-term recovery infrastructure

Second Story ranch seeking additional funding
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Second Story ranch seeking additional funding

Phyllis Coulter | Farm Week Now (October 6, 2025)

Contact us

Ryan Arnold
Ryan Arnold
Media Contact
ryan@desotostate.com(312) 600-7380

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About The Second Story Foundation

The Second Story Foundation helps men in early recovery from severe substance use disorder rebuild their lives with stability, purpose, and community. The organization provides recovery housing, meaningful work, and comprehensive support designed to promote lasting change. Its programs combine structure, employment, and fellowship to restore dignity and independence.

The Foundation operates residential recovery homes in Chicago’s south suburbs and is developing the 68-acre 2nd Story Ranch in Crete, Illinois. The ranch will serve as a residential recovery community where participants live, work, and grow through service, equine care, and skill-based training. The lodge and residences will house up to 14 men and include space for counseling, education, and community events.

The Second Story Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping men build lives of integrity, connection, and hope. Through compassion, structure, and shared purpose, the foundation supports transformation that endures.

Support recovery and second chances. Give today.

© 2026 The Second Story Foundation.

Contact

The Second Story Foundation 2400 E Bemes Rd. Crete, IL 60417

info@2ndStoryFoundation.org

2ndstoryfoundation.org