MEDIA COVERAGE

Shaw Local spotlights $2 million state investment in The Second Story Foundation, 2nd Story Ranch

Marcus Jackson | Shaw Local (August 1, 2026)

 

The article reports on Illinois’ $2 million investment in Second Story Ranch, highlighting the Crete-based recovery program’s model of combining long-term housing, meaningful work, life skills and support services for men rebuilding their lives after addiction. State Sen. Patrick Joyce, who championed the funding, credited Jim O’Connor’s years of advocacy and his work with lawmakers from both parties to build support for the Ranch. The story positions the state investment as a significant step toward constructing the facilities needed to help residents achieve lasting independence.

 

State awards $2M for addiction recovery, $385K for libraries and parks
Illinois awarded $2 million to Second Story Ranch in Crete, a new addiction recovery program that houses men and prepares them for employment through ranch work and life skills training.
Shaw Local

Share

Latest stories

Website preview
Rep. LaPointe Spotlights 2nd Story Ranch Recovery Model
House Mental Health & Addiction Committee chair highlights the Ranch’s long-term recovery model following visit to Crete.
media.2ndstoryfoundation.org
Website preview
Rep. Mussman Points to Next Chapter for 2nd Story Ranch
Lawmakers get a firsthand look at plans for the Crete recovery campus as the Foundation prepares for a fall groundbreaking.
media.2ndstoryfoundation.org
Website preview
Crete Horse Farm Provides Paid Work for People Rebuilding Their Lives After Addiction Treatment
First Furrow program provided 14 people in early recovery with 336 hours of paid work and more than $7,500 in wages; second cohort begins in October
media.2ndstoryfoundation.org

Get updates in your mailbox

By clicking "Subscribe" I confirm I have read and agree to the Privacy Policy.

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