H.O.P.E. Drug Court Celebrates 113th Graduation, Highlighting Recovery, Accountability, And Community Impact (Photo) - 06/24/26

Roseburg, OR — The H.O.P.E. Adult Drug Court will celebrate its 113th graduation ceremony on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Cascade Hall at the Douglas County Fairgrounds, beginning at 5:15 p.m. The ceremony will be presided over by the Honorable Judge Robert B. Johnson and will honor participants who have successfully completed the rigorous Drug Court program.

Graduation ceremonies represent far more than the completion of a program, they celebrate resilience, personal growth, and the power of recovery. Family members, friends, community partners, and supporters will gather to recognize graduates who have worked tirelessly to overcome substance-use disorders and build healthier, more stable futures.

Attendees will hear firsthand from graduates as they share their journeys through treatment, accountability, and recovery. Their stories reflect the challenges they have overcome, the support they have received, and the hope they now carry forward into the next chapter of their lives.

"Each graduation reminds us that recovery is possible," said Judge Johnson. "The individuals we celebrate have demonstrated extraordinary commitment and perseverance. Drug Court provides the structure, treatment, and support necessary for change, but it is the participants who do the hard work every day. Their success strengthens our entire community."

Transforming Lives Through Treatment Courts

Treatment courts like H.O.P.E. Drug Court offer an evidence-based alternative to traditional criminal justice responses for individuals struggling with substance-use disorders. Rather than focusing solely on incarceration, treatment courts address the underlying causes of criminal behavior through intensive treatment, accountability, and long-term support.

Participants engage in a highly structured program that includes:

• Intensive substance-use treatment
• Regular court appearances
• Frequent drug testing
• Close supervision and accountability
• Peer support and mentoring
• Employment and educational assistance
• Family and community support services

This comprehensive approach helps participants develop the tools needed to achieve lasting recovery, rebuild relationships, secure employment, and become productive members of the community.

A Strong Return on Investment

The H.O.P.E. Drug Court continues to demonstrate significant benefits for both participants and taxpayers.  In 2024, the program celebrated 21 graduates, resulting in an estimated $4.56 million in avoided prison costs. In 2025, four graduation ceremonies recognized 20 graduates, generating an additional $4.22 million in taxpayer savings through successful treatment and community-based supervision.

While these financial savings are substantial, the program's greatest successes are measured in stronger families, improved health outcomes, reduced recidivism, increased employment, and lives restored through recovery.  The success of H.O.P.E. Drug Court is made possible through the collaboration of the court, treatment providers, community corrections, peer mentors, community organizations, employers, and local supporters who believe in the value of second chances and long-term recovery.

Giving Back to the Community

As part of their recovery journey, graduates completed community service projects benefiting:

• Oregon Department of Human Services Child Welfare Division
• Roseburg Dream Center
• Community members seeking assistance with résumés, interview preparation, and employment opportunities

These projects reflect Drug Court's commitment to service, personal responsibility, and strengthening the community.

Event Details

What: 113th H.O.P.E. Drug Court Graduation
When: Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at 5:15 p.m.
Where: Cascade Hall, Douglas County Fairgrounds, Roseburg, Oregon
Who: Open to the public; presided over by Judge Robert B. Johnson

As H.O.P.E. Drug Court celebrates its 113th graduation, the message remains clear: recovery is possible, accountability works, and communities become stronger when individuals are given the opportunity, support, and tools needed to change their lives.

Community members are encouraged to attend and witness firsthand the transformative power of treatment, recovery, and hope.

Learn more and view graduation project information:
https://douglascountyor.gov/851/HOPE-Drug-Court

H.O.P.E. Drug Court Participant Launches “Hope For Kids In Crisis” Community Donation Drive To Support Local Children (Photo) - 05/26/26

Roseburg, OR —May 26, 2026 —

A Douglas County H.O.P.E. Drug Court graduate phase participant is proud to announce Hope for Kids in Crisis, a community-wide fundraising and donation effort benefiting the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Child Welfare Division in Douglas County.

The project aims to provide essential items for local children and families experiencing crisis situations. The ODHS Child Welfare Division works daily to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable children by providing emergency support, placement services, family assistance, and resources during some of the most difficult times in a child’s life. Having immediate access to basic necessities can make a significant difference in helping children feel safe, comfortable, and cared for during periods of uncertainty.

Community members are encouraged to donate new items with tags for children from newborn to age 12, including:

• Diapers
• Baby wipes
• Light toiletries
• Clothing
• Shoes

Other items to consider are car seats, gas cards, or non-perishable snack items for when clients are in the office.  All donated items must be received by June 7, 2026.

Donation Drop-Off Locations

Donations may be dropped off at:

• Champion Car Wash – 250 Suite A NE Garden Valley Blvd., Roseburg
• Douglas County Juvenile Department Lobby – First Floor Courthouse, Room 105A – 1036 SE Douglas Avenue
• ODHS Child Welfare Office – 738 W Harvard Avenue, Roseburg

Community Car Wash Fundraiser – May 30

The public is also invited to participate in a special fundraising event on Saturday, May 30, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Champion Car Wash, located at 250 Suite A NE Garden Valley Blvd.

For every vehicle washed during the event, $1 will be donated to the Hope for Kids in Crisis project. Community members may also bring donation items to the event for collection.

A Project with Purpose

The H.O.P.E. Drug Court Program believes that recovery is strengthened through service to others. Community service projects are an important component of the program, providing participants with opportunities to give back, build positive community connections, and demonstrate personal growth through meaningful action.

Drug Court helps individuals overcome substance use disorders through accountability, treatment, support services, and regular court supervision. By participating in projects such as Hope for Kids in Crisis, participants can make a positive impact on the lives of others while reinforcing the values of responsibility, compassion, and community involvement that are essential to long-term recovery.

“This project is an opportunity for our community to come together and support children who may be facing challenging circumstances,” said Jeremiah Ulam, Drug Court Graduate Phase Participant. “Every diaper, pair of shoes, package of wipes, and clothing item donated helps ensure that children entering or receiving services through Child Welfare have access to basic necessities and a sense of dignity and comfort.”

The H.O.P.E. Drug Court Project encourages community members, businesses, civic organizations, and families throughout Douglas County to join the effort and help make a difference in the lives of local children.  Together, we can provide hope, comfort, and support to children in crisis throughout Douglas County.

For more information or to contribute, community members are encouraged to participate in the listed event.  Graduate flyers and additional information about the H.O.P.E. Drug Court program are available through the Douglas County website via the Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC) at: https://douglascountyor.gov/851/HOPE-Drug-Court