H.O.P.E. Drug Court Participant Launches “Empowering Employment” Project To Support Workforce Reentry And Recovery (Photo) - 05/22/26

Roseburg, OR —May 22, 2026 —

A Douglas County H.O.P.E. Drug Court graduate phase participant is proud to announce Empowering Employment, a community initiative designed to help individuals overcome barriers to employment by providing professional clothing, job-readiness training, and direct connections to local employers.

Employment plays a critical role in long-term recovery, offering stability, purpose, and opportunities for personal growth. For many individuals rebuilding their lives, securing meaningful employment can be one of the most significant and challenging steps toward success.

"I cannot overstate the importance gainful employment has in one's recovery," said Tracy Fatkin, a H.O.P.E. Drug Court graduate phase participant. "The benefits are limitless—not only to one's own sense of pride, financial stability, and accomplishment—but also to the community as a whole. Having to face barriers to employment is a very difficult thing to overcome when you're starting over and trying to fix the mistakes you've made."

As part of the project, community members are encouraged to donate new or gently used interview-appropriate clothing and shoes. Donations will be distributed throughout the local community through redeemable vouchers at the Roseburg Dream Center located at 2555 NE Diamond Lake Boulevard in Roseburg.

Clothing donations will be accepted through June 1 at the following locations:

• Adapt Integrated Healthcare – 621 W. Madrone Street, Roseburg
• Painted Horse Recovery – 1941 NE Stephens Street, Roseburg
• Prints Charming – 419 SE Main Street, Roseburg

In addition, a Resume Writing and Interview Workshop will be held on May 29 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at WorkSource Oregon, located at 846 SE Pine Street, Roseburg. Participants will have the opportunity to strengthen their resumes, practice interviewing skills through mock interviews, and receive individualized assistance designed to improve their chances of obtaining employment. The workshop is open to anyone seeking additional support in their job search.

The Empowering Employment initiative will conclude with a Community Job Fair on June 5 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Painted Horse Recovery, 1941 NE Stephens Street. The event will connect job seekers facing barriers to employment with local employers, workforce resources, and community organizations dedicated to supporting successful reentry and recovery.  For businesses interested in participating, go to the Eventbrite website at empoweringemploymentdchope.eventbrite.com to register.

H.O.P.E. Drug Court organizers invite local businesses, community partners, and residents to join in supporting the Empowering Employment project by donating professional attire, participating in the job fair, or helping spread awareness about these valuable resources. 

"Employment is one of the strongest predictors of long-term success in recovery and reduced recidivism,” stated Koree Tate, LPSCC Coordinator and Drug Court Team Member, “When individuals have the opportunity to earn a living wage, support their families, and contribute to their community, they gain more than a paycheck—they gain purpose, stability, and hope. The Empowering Employment Project helps remove barriers and creates pathways for people to move forward with confidence and dignity."

For more information or to contribute, community members are encouraged to participate in any of the listed events.  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