Sycamore Rotarians got acquainted with new Rotarian Heather Tomlinson as she gave her classification speech during this week’s meeting. Tomlinson helps coordinate recovery care programs and resources in DeKalb and Ogle Counties for the non-profit organization Sauk Valley Voices of Recovery.
Tomlinson grew up in Genoa, mainly raised by her grandparents. She said she did a lot of travelling beginning in her 20’s but did not always make the wisest choices. She said it was not until she was 39 that she found her path to addiction recovery. This is what led her to focus on a career in social work, specifically helping people overcome their addictions. She began taking classes at Aurora University and then joined Sauk Valley Voices of Recovery. Tomlinson says she now feels she is fulfilling her full career potential by helping others. She said a big part of helping someone overcome an addiction is making the individual strong mentally and physically, plus having a feeling of being “grateful.” Tomlinson says these same qualities got her interested in Rotary membership because of its commitment to service for others and community philanthropy.
Tomlinson says she relaxes by taking part in a Sunday morning walking group and also enjoys trips with her three children, ages 8, 12, and 17. Please be sure to extend a warm “Rotary Welcome” to Heather Tomlinson when you next see her.