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Dozens of program graduates and staff praise Crossroads recovery program at Washoe County meeting
Summary
Multiple current and former participants in Crossroads addressed the board to thank commissioners for funding and to describe recovery outcomes, while commissioners and staff commended the program as a model for community‑based recovery services.
Dozens of current and former participants, staff and allied nonprofit leaders testified to the Washoe County Board of Commissioners about the recovery and housing work of Crossroads during the meeting’s public‑comment period.
Speakers described personal recovery journeys and thanked the county for financial support. “Crossroads was exactly what I needed in order to change my life,” said Kevin Lystedt, identifying himself as a Crossroads graduate and employee. Former participants described regained family relationships, employment and a renewed sense of purpose.
Commissioners responded during their reports. Commissioner Mike Clark praised the program’s outcomes and urged that participants be given opportunities to provide input at community homeless advisory board meetings: “Part of hearing, having these meetings is hearing from the folks who are living that life,” Clark said. Commissioner Marius Garcia and Commissioner Claire Andreola also commended Crossroads’ results and thanked staff and participants who spoke.
Several Crossroads speakers, including program managers and graduates, described how the program combines peer support, structured programming and staff guidance. Program manager Jimmy Drury said the county’s backing allows the program to connect clients with broader community supports. Multiple current and former residents said county funds help pay for beds and daily operations at Crossroads, and several speakers urged continued local investment in recovery services.
Why it matters: Crossroads provides residential recovery and supportive services for people with substance use disorders; commissioners indicated the program as an example of a county‑funded initiative that produced measurable personal outcomes. The meeting recorded emotional testimony from people who said they would not be in recovery without Crossroads, and several elected officials said they would look for ways to expand engagement and partnership.
Ending: No formal board action was taken at the meeting specifically to expand Crossroads during this item; commissioners expressed support and asked staff to continue coordination with the program and community partners.
