Richard Condina’s Story – Resilient Recovery And Service At Lesc

Richard Condina, Director of LESC’s OSR 1 Outpatient Opioid Treatment  Program, has lived an incredible journey that spans nearly four decades of sobriety. His remarkable story is not only a testament to the power of recovery but also a shining example of the impact one individual can have on countless lives.

A Commitment to Giving Back

Richie’s own recovery journey began at the age of 34, marking the end of a 22-year battle with heroin addiction. His path to sobriety was paved with determination, unwavering faith, and the support of Narcotics Anonymous (NA), where he found solace and purpose. He quickly became deeply involved in NA, serving on the Board of Directors for two terms – each spanning an impressive eleven years. His commitment to the NA community extended to attending and speaking at conventions all over the world, sharing his story of recovery and spreading the message of hope.

Richie’s own recovery journey has been nothing short of miraculous. He faced and conquered numerous health challenges, including a stroke, cancer, kidney failure, and a heart attack – all while managing to maintain his sobriety. His faith and resilience have served as a source of inspiration for everyone he encounters. 

Richie’s dedication to the field of addiction recovery didn’t stop at personal sobriety and involvement in NA. He immersed himself in the world of addiction treatment, accumulating over 35 years of experience. He worked with various drug treatment programs, drug-free residential programs, and adolescent programs, leaving a lasting mark on each.

A Twist of Fate – Joining LESC

Richie’s journey took a surprising turn when he was offered a position at LESC. His initial involvement with Samaritan Village and Odyssey House provided him with a unique perspective on addiction treatment. But it was his eventual role as the director at LESC that allowed him to make an even greater impact on individuals providing the services and individuals seeking recovery. “We have a family here in LESC,” Richie explained. “And sometimes some people fit, and sometimes some people don’t fit, which is just a way of life.”

“I respect the mission of the program,” Richie emphasized. “I respect the people that oversee the program. I respect the people here. I think my clinical staff is very effective and very concerned with the welfare of our clients. I don’t think that’s something that is a result of my supervision, I think they came with that in their heart, because, let’s face it, to do this work, you’re not going to get rich.” This sense of unity and belonging within a workplace is uncommon. It reinforces the idea that a fulfilling career isn’t just about the work itself but also about the people you work alongside. When asked why he continues to work for LESC at 72 years of age he replied, “I have no reason to retire. Why should I want to leave this?”

Leading with Compassion

In a world where job satisfaction can often be elusive, Richie stands as a testament to the enduring power of passion and respect in one’s career. Hailing from a traditional Italian family from Brooklyn, Richie’s roots are deeply embedded in a culture that places immense value on respect and tradition. It’s a value he carries with him every day.

Richie’s leadership style is rooted in compassion and understanding. He takes pride in welcoming newcomers to the program – always reinforcing the positive, life-changing potential of their decision to seek help. He motivates and inspires clients to embrace the recovery process, assuring them that a brighter future awaits if they stay committed.

Richie also explained that he understands the importance of separating his work from his personal recovery journey. While he embodies the principles of the Twelve Steps in his life, he recognizes that his job is a separate entity. This clarity allows him to serve his clients with professionalism and dedication while preserving his own recovery.

Committed to Making a Difference

Working in addiction recovery presents its share of challenges, and Richie is no stranger to them. From clients dealing with transportation issues to navigating the complexities of Medicaid, he helps problem solve with patience and empathy. His unwavering commitment to his clients shines through as he helps them overcome obstacles, no matter how daunting.

Richie’s impact on the lives of those he serves extends beyond the realm of addiction treatment. He helps clients reconnect with their families, offering hope and guidance for reconciliation. His dedication to his clients goes beyond the call of duty. As Richie continues his remarkable journey of recovery, he remains committed to making a positive impact on the lives of those seeking help at LESC. His unwavering faith and dedication to giving back to those navigating the challenging path of addiction recovery are truly an inspiration.