Jeff Gilbert describes his life as an alcoholic and cocaine addict by saying, “I was homeless, hapless and self-loathing.”
Now, with eight years of uninterrupted sobriety under his belt, he is founder, president and clinical director of Hope for Tomorrow, an Aurora agency that seeks to heal and house chronic substance abusers. He also is one of seven local honorees who recently received 2005 Jefferson Awards in Chicago for outstanding public service.
The Jefferson Awards were established in 1972 to encourage and honor individuals for their achievements and contributions through public and community service. National winners have included Bob Hope, Henry Kissinger and Sally Ride.
Gilbert used to look in the mirror and despise what he saw. But faith changed all that, he said.
He is now a state-certified alcohol and drug counselor as well as a problem and compulsive gambling counselor.
He and his wife, Janet, bought five homes that can house up to 37 recovering addicts.
“We’ve purchased these homes because the need is there and I can’t let these men waste away in despair,” he said.
Although the services offered at Hope for Tomorrow are licensed by the state, the agency itself is funded solely through private donations.
“We’re pulling money out of our retirement until we can get some donations or some money from the state,” Gilbert said. “Still, I know in my heart I’m doing what God has always wanted me to do.”
Steve Chamula, 43, a recovering alcohol and drug addict, lives in one of those houses.
“The man cares about each and every one of us,” Chamula said. “He’s been exactly where I’ve been and he goes out of his way for us.”
