From Struggles to Strength: How Charamine Crawley is Turning Her Pain into Purpose as a Future Recovery Counselor!
People who’ve experienced challenges often channel their struggles into helping others. That’s what led Charamine Crawley to want to become a Drug and Alcohol Recovery Counselor (DARC).
Charamine, who will receive a $1,500 Frank Jurczyk Scholarship, is open about dealing with mental illness, trauma, and substance abuse.
“I’ve worked with my current clinician for seven years,” Charamine said. “She helped me believe in myself and encouraged me to enter Gateway’s DARC program. I’ve learned that substance use disorder is more than just using drugs, and I want to be part of the solution.”
At first, Charamine just hoped to “change, evolve, and finish the DARC program.” Then, a professor asked about her career goals. Now, she’s determined to one day earn a four-year degree at Southern Connecticut State University.
“My financial aid is maxed, but I’m trying to figure it out,” she explained. “Even if I have to take one class a semester, I’m going to make it happen.” Despite having chronic migraines, Charamine has a 3.82 GPA. Having special accommodations allows her to manage her classes. She’s active with Gateway’s DARC Club, and was asked to become an officer next semester.
Adding to her own stress are her concerns about her mother’s and brother’s serious health issues. They needed help managing their care, so Charamine took off last spring and did her fall semester online.
She’s back now, however, and she’s not giving up. “People are dying, and they need help. I’m passionate about this.”
Charamine’s journey is just one of the many inspiring stories we celebrate at Gateway. By attending or sponsoring the Hall of Fame event, you can help empower students like Charamine to achieve their dreams and make a lasting impact in their communities. Support the next generation of leaders—together, we can change lives.