Another change to the New Directions’ team happened this summer with the hiring of Emili Barbour as our new Alumnae Coordinator. Taking over for her pregnant best friend Lauren, Emili comes to her position as an alumna of New Directions, actively participating in every alumnae event for the last four years.
“I’m excited to be giving back to New Directions because they’ve given so much to me,” says Emili. “I wouldn’t be sober today if it wasn’t for this amazing organization.”
Emili kicked off her tenure with the annual Alumnae Retreat on September 13 – an event designed around fellowship, fun, and a chance to reconnect with sisters in sobriety. This year’s retreat was held in Malibu at Milestones Ranch. Next up will be the annual Harvest Hunt on October 23rd, and the yearly Holiday Party in December.
“I kind of came in at the most exciting time of the year,” she said enthusiastically. “The Holiday party just gets bigger and bigger every year with typically over 150 people that come … it’s so much fun!”
Emili and New Directions’ team feel it’s important to stay connected with the women that you shared early sobriety with.
“It’s crucial, especially in early sobriety, to feel like you can relate and identify with other women. That’s what alumnae is all about. We’re all about having fun, supporting each other, staying connected, and giving back. I’m especially moved by the unique way a woman who has already gone through the program can deliver a message of hope to the new girls in the treatment center.”
Excerpted from the New Directions for Women Fall 2014 Butterfly Bulletin
New Directions for Women is a treatment facility located in California that offers help to women of all ages, pregnant women in any trimester, and women with children. Founded in 1977, our courageous and visionary founders asked for the help of Newport Beach Junior League members to fulfill their vision of a tranquil home-like facility that would treat women with dignity and respect. Our caring admissions counselors are available 24/7 to take your call and answer any questions you may have on getting help. Reach us by phone at 800-93-WOMEN. We can help. Stay in the loop with New Directions for Women by connecting with us on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn.
