Mission & Impact

We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.

Our Mission

At the Family Recovery Foundation, our mission is clear and impactful: to offer need-based resources that support families recovering from substance use disorders. Our goal is to foster healing, preserve family unity, and reduce harm. We recognize that recovery is a deeply personal journey with no one-size-fits-all solution. That’s why we focus on providing compassionate, tailored support to help families navigate the challenges of recovery with dignity and care.

Our Values

Compassion

We lead with empathy and understanding, recognizing the deep impact substance use has on the entire family unit.

Support

We provide personalized, need-based resources that address the unique challenges families face during recovery.

Empowerment

Our goal is to empower parents and children with the tools and guidance they need to rebuild, recover, and thrive together.

Our Goals & Community Impact

The Family Recovery Foundation was born from over 25 years of combined experience in substance use treatment. Founded by Dr. Sandi and Mr. Mike Carlson, the foundation is a direct response to the unmet needs they witnessed time and again—especially among parents navigating recovery.

Close critical gaps in care for families affected by substance use.
Provide access to resources that might otherwise be unavailable.
Create a path to sustainable recovery for both individuals and their loved ones.
Foster stronger, healthier communities—one family at a time.

Real Stories of Recovery

Tabbitha’s Journey: Finding Strength Through Support

Tabbitha was the first participant in the Pregnant and Parenting program. Entering with a long history of substance use and CPS involvement, she initially felt isolated and unsure. The program’s strong sense of support and community helped her rebuild her confidence and find her footing. Cooking became a therapeutic and creative outlet during her recovery, giving her a renewed sense of purpose.

Since joining, Tabitha has welcomed her fourth child, reunited with her other children, and begun pursuing a degree in Health Science with a minor in Child Advocacy and Psychology. Her recovery journey now fuels her desire to help others. She encourages those in similar situations to stay focused, do it for themselves and their families, and lean on the support systems around them. Her path highlights the power of resilience, structure, and second chances.

Laken’s Story: A Life Reclaimed Through Recovery

Laken’s early life was marked by abuse, instability, and addiction. By age 13, she was fully addicted and entangled in cycles of incarceration and trauma. She struggled through multiple overdoses, exposure to dangerous substances, and a revolving door of jail time. Despite moments of sobriety, the lack of consistent support made recovery difficult, and she often relapsed shortly after release..

In 2024, three months pregnant and feeling hopeless, Laken entered Mississippi Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center. There, she found structure, safety, and people who believed in her. Today, she is in recovery, has taken parenting classes, and is building a healthier future. Reflecting on her journey, she often says, “These people have taken me in and helped me learn so much about who I am.” Her story is one of survival, healing, and hope through community and care.