“I’m trying to help recidivism of recovering people and helping them get degrees and purpose.”

Mary-Kay Riendeau LADC, LSW, MSW, and Human Services and Addiction Studies Instructor, has helped students on the road to recovery. Since 2019, Riendeau has secured about 2.7 million dollars from Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), St. Louis County, and the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS). Each grant has certain requirements, but they all have the same goal: Create opportunities for students and increase the number of licensed drug and alcohol counselors (LADC) in Minnesota, and help recovering substance use individuals.

The statistics from the Minnesota Department of Human Services paint a dark picture of the challenges posed by substance abuse disorders in recent years. The alarming increase in deaths due to prescription opioids, heroin, and fentanyl underscores the urgent need for comprehensive intervention and support systems.

The Minnesota DHS grant totals $796,705. This funding supports the 2024-2026 school year with 33 new and 8 returning students. It is a continuation of a current grant already secured. The grant’s focus on providing opportunities for individuals with one year or more in recovery to obtain permits or licenses for alcohol and drug counseling is a vital step towards building a skilled workforce capable of making a real difference in combating substance abuse. By offering full tuition and stipends for an AAS Degree in Addiction Studies, as well as certificates for those with prior bachelor’s degrees, the grant opens doors for diverse pathways to licensure and professional growth. Moreover, the inclusion of a grant coordinator role shows the commitment to effective program management and support, ensuring that students have the resources they need to succeed.

At the end of the 2024 grant year, 92% of the initial twenty-five recovering opioid use individuals/students from 2022-2023 school year have remained free from problematic substance use for a period of 3 years or more. In addition, 100% of the 10 students from the 2023-2024 school year have been free from problematic substance use for at least one and a half years.

“I always knew that I wanted to go back to school and find a new purpose in life after getting sober, but everything about it felt so big and scary. I was referred to this grant through a co-worker and these last two years have given me a whole new lease on life. The teachers were wonderful, I made some new friends, and most of all, I found a place in the world where I can become something again.  Being selected for this grant was an absolute blessing and it’s something I will never take for granted,” said current student Heather Y. 

Blue Cross Blue Shield has been another vital partner of the Addiction Studies program. The purpose of the $167,000 grant is to support and license/permit Alcohol and Drug Counselors in rural areas. The BCBS/Minnesota North partnership aids students with emergency funding for social determinants such as childcare, food inequities, car repairs, mental health care, medical costs, rent costs, etc. The contribution will also help to hire a Grant Coordinator who will oversee the distribution of emergency funding to students in need and support the Addiction Studies program.

Stormy L. is a current student in the Addiction Studies program and is supported by these grants.

“The Addiction Studies Scholarship has provided me with the opportunity to develop connections and qualities that will serve my clients and well in my future profession. Our instructors are skilled and compassionate professionals who have graciously passed down their experience and knowledge to assist us in overcoming the barriers to not only pursuing a career but also succeeding in the human service/substance use field. Pursuing this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is the best decision I have ever made for myself and my children- it has significantly changed my life forever. This has been an incredible experience that has provided me with the knowledge and hands-on experience essential to competently and effectively helping individuals working toward recovery while maintaining my recovery, well-being, and professionalism.”

These stories from students are just a small glimpse of the true impact of this program. For many individuals, these grants are more than just financial support; they represent a lifeline, offering hope and purpose where it may have seemed scarce before.

Through these grants, students are empowered to pursue their passions, contribute meaningfully to their communities, and make a difference in the lives of those affected by addiction. What may have felt like an insurmountable obstacle is now a pathway to new opportunities and a brighter future. 

As we continue to witness the impact of these grants, remember that behind every statistic or success story is a journey of courage, determination, and hope. The true value of these grants lies not only in the programs they fund but in the lives they touch and the futures they inspire. The Addiction Studies program is currently accepting new applicants for the grants. For more information about this program and the grant, please contact Alina Staniger at alina.staniger@minnesotanorth.edu.

Minnesota North College prepares lifelong learners and engaged citizens through inclusive, transformative experiences reflecting the character and natural environment of the region. For more information about Minnesota North College, please contact Annika Freiburger at annika.freiburger@minnesotanorth.edu.