COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KOAA) — The sound of construction fills the air, but this project is about more than just a building. It’s about building hope.
Behind the work on a new recovery center On the Southeast side of Colorado Springs is Corey Woodward. He's an owner whose past is now shaping a different future for others.
“Illegal drug activity, robberies… 20 years," said Woodard.
That’s how long he spent in prison. When he got out, he made a decision that he wouldn’t look back. Instead, he stepped into Silver Linings Recovery Center, becoming a leader to others walking the same path he once did.
“I’ve been out for a few years now… and I just hit the ground running… looking for opportunities to help… wherever I can serve," said Woodard.
Now, he’s opening his own recovery center, Living Proof Recovery Center, in a part of the city he says needs it most.
Just steps away from the building, a tragedy occurred in March. Colorado Springs police say a 15-year-old girl was shot and killed in a nearby parking lot, right in front of where the center will open.
- Watch News5's coverage of that shooting below:
For Woodward, it only strengthened his conviction.
“This is the area that I wanted to be in… I felt like it was being left behind… people over here just aren’t getting the help… and I couldn’t live with that,” said Woodward.
His goal is simple, create a space where people can come anytime and begin their recovery journey.
“We’re not selling dope no more… we now sell hope. I want to inspire… If I can do it, you can do it. That’s why it’s called Living Proof," said Woodard.
Living Proof Recovery Center is set to open this Saturday.
___
Hearing from caregivers after Joint Budget Committee approves caregiving cut
One concern for families is a 56-hour proposed weekly paid caregiving cap. It's currently at 112 hours per week. The Joint Budget Committee approved that cut, and News5's Liv Wood spoke with parent caregivers to get their reactions to the decision.
____
Watch KOAA News5 on your time, anytime with our free streaming app available for your Roku, FireTV, AppleTV and Android TV. Just search KOAA News5, download and start watching.
