Latest stories

A Shot of Ag spotlights Jim O’Connor and 2nd Story Ranch recovery model

A Shot of Ag spotlights Jim O’Connor and 2nd Story Ranch recovery model

Rob Sharkey | WTVP-TV / Public Media for Central Illinois (September 13, 2026)

Jim O’Connor challenges behavioral health field to rethink the path to lasting recovery

Jim O’Connor challenges behavioral health field to rethink the path to lasting recovery

Illinois Association for Behavioral Health Conference (September 11, 2026)

Jim O’Connor Receives IABH Honor for Advancing Recovery Beyond Treatment

Jim O’Connor Receives IABH Honor for Advancing Recovery Beyond Treatment

Second Story Foundation founder recognized for advancing long-term recovery in Illinois as focus turns to the next phase of the 2nd Story Ranch

State Leaders Visit 2nd Story Ranch

State Leaders Visit 2nd Story Ranch

Visit highlights growing support for the Foundation’s long-term recovery model and plans for the 68-acre campus.

Planned addiction recovery horse ranch in Crete receives $2 million from state

Planned addiction recovery horse ranch in Crete receives $2 million from state

Olivia Stevens | Daily Southtown (June 29, 2026)

A Second Story (About A Second Story)

A Second Story (About A Second Story)

Mike and Bill | Sober Not Mature podcast (June, 27 2026)

The Second Story Foundation Receives State Investment for 2nd Story Ranch Recovery Housing Project

The Second Story Foundation Receives State Investment for 2nd Story Ranch Recovery Housing Project

Funding marks a strong start toward completing the recovery housing and workforce development initiative in Crete

Jim O’Connor: Preventing relapse after treatment

Jim O’Connor: Preventing relapse after treatment

by Jim O'Connor, CADC | May 24, 2026

Plans in works to turn horse farm in unincorporated Crete into campus for those on road to sobriety

Plans in works to turn horse farm in unincorporated Crete into campus for those on road to sobriety

Rob Hughes | WLS-TV (May 20, 2026)

Opinion: Illinois has a recovery problem — and it’s costing us more than we think

Opinion: Illinois has a recovery problem — and it’s costing us more than we think

by Jim O'Connor, CADC | May 19, 2026

Planned addiction recovery horse ranch in Crete offers short-term jobs for people leaving treatment

Planned addiction recovery horse ranch in Crete offers short-term jobs for people leaving treatment

Olivia Stevens | Daily Southtown (May 10, 2025)

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About The Second Story Foundation

The Second Story Foundation helps men in early recovery from severe substance use disorder rebuild their lives with stability, purpose, and community. The organization provides recovery housing, meaningful work, and comprehensive support designed to promote lasting change. Its programs combine structure, employment, and fellowship to restore dignity and independence.

The Foundation operates residential recovery homes in Chicago’s south suburbs and is developing the 68-acre 2nd Story Ranch in Crete, Illinois. The ranch will serve as a residential recovery community where participants live, work, and grow through service, equine care, and skill-based training. The lodge and residences will house up to 14 men and include space for counseling, education, and community events.

The Second Story Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping men build lives of integrity, connection, and hope. Through compassion, structure, and shared purpose, the foundation supports transformation that endures.

Support recovery and second chances. Give today.

© 2026 The Second Story Foundation.

Contact

The Second Story Foundation 2400 E Bemes Rd. Crete, IL 60417

74-SADDLE-UP (747-233-5387)

info@2ndstoryfoundation.org

2ndstoryfoundation.org