Episode 160: New Roots, Inc., and the Willow Foundation: A lifeline to those in need.

April 9, 2024

About the Podcast

Join us as we delve into inspiring conversations with individuals like Kristen Topolski, co-founder and CEO of New Roots, Inc., and the Willow Foundation. With 27 years of experience in social services, Kristen shares her journey of providing peer-based recovery support to individuals and families affected by substance use disorders. Discover how a holistic approach to food and support services is transforming lives and building stronger, healthier communities.

About Kristen Topolski

Kristen has 27 years of experience in social services, specializing in program development and advocacy for homeless and disadvantaged individuals. She began her career assisting single mothers with employment, housing, and education challenges. Over time, she developed and implemented transitional housing and emergency shelter programs for homeless women and children. Kristen is currently the CEO and Co-Founder of New Roots, Inc., which offers community-based recovery support services and operates Recovery Support Centers in Pennsylvania. Additionally, she co-founded and serves as Vice President of Willow Foundation, which operates a day shelter for individuals and families experiencing homelessness in the Greater Hazleton Area.

Discussion Takeaways

Kristen is the co-founder of both New Roots Recovery Center and the Willow Foundation.
Kristen Topolski's work underscores the importance of instilling hope in individuals struggling with addiction. By providing tangible support and showcasing success stories, these organizations inspire hope and demonstrate that a fulfilling life in recovery is attainable.
New Roots Recovery Center provides peer-based recovery support to individuals and families impacted by substance use disorders. The peer-based approach involves individuals with lived experience guiding others through their recovery journeys. These peer mentors offer practical advice, share personal strategies that worked for them, and provide empathetic support, fostering a sense of connection and understanding.
Life is not easy, and we need a support system in a community to boost each other up. By providing a supportive environment where individuals are treated with dignity and respect, the organizations help build a sense of belonging and connectedness, reducing the risk of relapse and promoting long-term recovery.
Kristen learned that it's not about competition, it's about collaboration. Collaboration happens at the top.

Name

Kristen Topolski

Email

ktopolski@newrootspa.org

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Each week on the Food Dignity® Podcast, the Food Dignity® Movement’s Clancy Harrison hosts a wide variety of hunger experts and other people making changes on the frontlines. Join us as we dive deep into conversations that will change the way you think about food insecurity.