RRP Episode 42: Erin Kelling – From Addiction to Leadership at Arbor House Portland

A Journey of Resilience, Recovery, and Empowerment

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In episode 42 of the Real Recovery Podcast, we welcome Erin Kelling, who shares her incredible transformation from addiction and homelessness to becoming the house manager at Arbor House Portland. Erin's journey shines a light on the challenges of breaking free from destructive cycles, the strength it takes to rebuild a life, and the power of giving back to the recovery community.

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The Power of Resilience in Recovery

​Erin’s Background
Erin grew up with loving parents—her father, a pastor, and her mother, a social worker. Despite this supportive upbringing, Erin’s early life was marked by fear and anxiety, which eventually led her to substances as a way to cope. Her first experiences with addiction began at just 12 years old.

​Struggles and Adversity
Throughout her teens and early adulthood, Erin faced homelessness, abusive relationships, and addiction. By 18, she was involved in criminal activities, which resulted in felony charges. Despite these hardships, she recognized a turning point when given an opportunity through the drug court system.

Finding Recovery Through Drug Court
Erin credits the structure and honesty required by the Multnomah County drug court program as the foundation for her recovery. The program offered her the chance to work through the challenges of addiction with accountability and support, leading her to a life-changing opportunity at Arbor House Portland.

Links to Websites Discussed:

• Arbor House Portland
• Real Recovery Podcast
• Listen to Episode 42
• Episode Blog Post

"Recovery didn’t just save my life; it helped me discover who I truly am and what I’m capable of." 
​—Erin Kelling

Leadership at Arbor House Portland
Today, Erin serves as the house manager at Arbor House Portland, a nonprofit dedicated to providing safe housing for women in recovery. Erin shares how this role not only allowed her to rebuild her life but also enabled her to help others navigate their recovery journeys. Her story highlights the importance of community, leadership, and selfless service in long-term recovery.

Erin’s story exemplifies the strength of the human spirit and the transformative power of recovery. Her work at Arbor House Portland continues to inspire women in recovery, proving that with support, determination, and a willingness to embrace change, anything is possible.

#RealRecoveryPodcast, #RecoveryJourney, #AddictionRecovery, #ArborHousePortland, #SecondChances, @arborhouseportland

Show Notes:

Title: RRP 42: Erin Kelling – From Addiction to Leadership at Arbor House Portland
Presenters: Peter, Julie
Length: 1 hour, 12 minutes
Links to Websites: Arbor House Portland, Real Recovery Podcast
Key Points:

• [00:00:00] Introduction to Erin Kelling: Journey from addiction and homelessness to recovery and leadership.
• [00:01:11] The importance of a safe and supportive recovery meeting environment.
• [00:05:50] Erin’s early experiences with addiction and fear from childhood.
• [00:13:43] Challenges of early homelessness and abusive relationships during addiction.
• [00:20:38] Transition through the court system and discovering drug court as a turning point.
• [00:35:00] Working through steps in recovery and embracing a new life through service.
• [00:42:33] Becoming the house manager at Arbor House Portland and the impact of building community.
• [00:52:08] Rebuilding relationships with family and maintaining long-term recovery.
• [00:57:48] The power of giving back and inspiring others in their recovery journey.

Summary:
In this episode, Erin Kelling shares her powerful journey from a chaotic life of addiction and homelessness to becoming a leader in recovery. Through her experiences, Erin highlights the importance of supportive recovery programs, the transformative power of the 12 Steps, and the fulfillment of helping others. As the house manager at Arbor House Portland, Erin exemplifies resilience and the rewards of living a life in service to others.
Conclusion:
Erin’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of second chances. Her work at Arbor House Portland continues to inspire women on their own recovery journeys, reminding us that change is possible with the right support and determination.
Hashtags: #RealRecoveryPodcast, #RecoveryJourney, #AddictionRecovery, #ArborHousePortland, #SecondChances @arborhouseportland