MEDIA COVERAGE

Will County horse ranch to help with addiction recovery

Phyllis Coulter | Herald-Whig (May 17, 2025)

Phyllis Coulter builds on her FarmWeek Now profile in the downstate Illinois Herald-Whig, highlighting how Jim O’Connor, a recovering alcoholic turned certified counselor, is leading the Second Story Foundation’s expansion to a 68-acre horse ranch in Crete, Illinois. Alongside Director of Operations Erik Christenson, O’Connor is developing a structured recovery program where men in early sobriety live rent-free, work on the farm, secure outside employment, and rebuild stability through purpose-driven engagement with horses and hands-on labor.

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Will County horse ranch to help with addiction recovery
CRETE, Ill. — An Illinois man who credits a good rehab program and working with horses for saving his life now helps others struggling with substance and alcohol addiction.
Herald-Whig

 

 

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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