A GOOD CAUSE
These clean and sober individuals are participating in the Spartan for a Cause race to raise funds in support of The Van Ness Recovery House. We asked them why they chose to participate and how being of service helps them in their recovery
BY PAULO MURILLO
A NEW LIFE
“I wanted to be a part of the Spartan Race because I wanted to challenge myself and push myself past my limits. This is really out of my comfort zone, but if sobriety has taught me anything, it is that I have to change in order to get a better life. This has not only helped my mental health, but it’s also supporting a good cause. I find service to be important. When I was told about this opportunity and that I would be helping fundraise to give back to the Van Ness house, I knew I wanted to do it. The Van Ness House has done so much for me. They have given me a new life. If I could pay back just a small amount, then why not?”
—Germán Pérez Mancilla, sober since October 17, 2024.
AN AMAZING STORY
“Doing the Spartan race is about being of service, joining a fitness activity, staying healthy, and combining both my interest in being active, and then doing something to show my appreciation for the Van Ness house. They’ve helped so many people regain sobriety and recover from addiction for so many years. I know a few folks who were able to go there and receive lodging to begin their recovery. I know one young guy who was practically homeless. He was able to get a bed at the Van Ness House and now that young man has moved to New York, he is on his own, he’s working, he’s thriving, and it’s an amazing story. That was partially due to the work at the Van Ness house, and that’s honestly the reason why I’m doing this…”
—Rey3 Vazquez, sober since January 10, 2024.
A MILESTONE
“It all started with AIDS LifeCycle (ALC). Giving back in such a way was something I didn’t think I was capable of. It turned out to be an eye-opening experience in that I could demonstrate something for other people to believe in. It was for a good cause, it generated purpose and motivation for other people to participate in something. I didn’t think it was possible for me to do that, so doing it for ALC is what inspired me to do this Spartan Race. When I did ALC, that was my second year in recovery, so it was just kind of like a milestone for me. Now that it’s over, I need something to fill that space, and so this is what came up. This is a way for me to be of service. My sponsor is really involved in all of this, so I just take his suggestion, and this is what was suggested. I went through the Van Ness Recovery House in 2020. When I was there, I really respected it. I didn’t finish, so I’ve always wanted to stay connected to it. This is a really great way for me to stay connected to it. It’s also good way to be active.”
—Logan Lopez, sober since January 4, 2023.
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