When Robert Nietan wanted to find drug recovery, HVAF was there to help.

In 1974, 17-year-old Robert Nieten enlisted in the United States Marine Corps.

“It was a great experience,” Robert said. “But I had already started abusing drugs and alcohol.”

After his time in the military, he moved home and worked at Ford Motor Company with his father. For decades, Robert continued to abuse drugs and alcohol. He said other problems in his life stemmed from his addictions, including several arrests.

“(Drugs and alcohol) almost killed me,” Robert said. “Finally, it got to the point where I had nowhere to go.”

Finally, in 2011, Robert knew he needed to make a change. He came to HVAF and signed up for our drug recovery program at the time – REST. It could be considered a miracle that he received a spot into the program: there was only one spot left that day!

He lived at HVAF, taking classes and going through the 12-step program. After eight months in the program, he graduated and found sustainable housing – thanks to one of our case managers.

“It was great. I had the security of being here. And I had a clean place to sleep, good environment,” Robert said. “Many of the men were intent in being done with substance abuse,” he said as he explained the camaraderie between him and the veterans.

Robert stopped using substances when he entered HVAF in August 2011… and remains clean TODAY! Also, he continues to take advantage of HVAF’s services today.

Watch Robert’s story: