From Struggles to Strength: One mom's transformation
September 23, 2024

How a Single Mom in Addiction Recovery Transformed Her Life

to Become a Recovery Coach

As a single mother in addiction recovery, trying to balance work and school, Maggie Memmott turned to CAPCIL for support through the Head Start program. She never imagined she would find a community of people that would eventually feel like family. Maggie shared, “they didn’t just help my kids; they supported me immensely with kind words and encouragement, pushing me to believe I could achieve great things. And whenever my kids or I needed something that CAPCIL didn’t offer, they always provided the information we needed.” The CAPCIL community welcomed Maggie without judgment, cheering her on as she continued on her journey to becoming the best version of herself.


Growing up, Maggie was surrounded by addiction and had a front row seat to the devastating impact it can have on a child’s life. She endured both physical and emotional trauma leaving her feeling voiceless, anxious and scared. Sadly, school was no escape. Kids were mean and exacerbated the thoughts of shame, isolation, and inadequacy. Eventually, around age 14, Maggie began developing her own addictions and fell into the difficult path she had always known.


Maggie reached her lowest point when her children were taken away. As a loving mother who knew all too well the pain of growing up in an environment plagued by addiction, she found a powerful motivation to break the cycle and create a better future for her family. This journey demanded immense grit and strength, requiring daily resilience and perseverance. Despite the challenges, she fought tirelessly for her sobriety and ultimately regained custody of her children.


Support can be one of the most challenging barriers for someone struggling with addiction. Without the support of Head Start, Maggie wouldn’t have been able to attend school or work. Now, she is paying it forward by working at the Piatt County Mental Health Center. There, she has found meaningful work as a coordinator and recovery coach, helping those suffering from substance and alcohol abuse. Maggie’s story is a testament to the CAPCIL belief that by helping one person at a time, you can ultimately change the lives of many.


Samantha Carton

Freelance Writer

9/17/2024


Maggie is a dedicated mother with a child who has graduated from Head Start, another child currently enrolled, and one in Early Head Start. She has also received valuable assistance through CAPCIL’s LIHEAP program and CSBG Case Management, highlighting the range of support CAPCIL provides to families.

Building a Brighter Future: A Family Journey with Head Start

By Breann Titus • September 8, 2025
In 2023, Audrey, Luke, and their daughter Eloise began their journey with CAPCIL’s Early Head Start Home Base program, working closely with their Family Engagement Specialist, Sarah. At the time, Audrey was working part-time in their hometown of Emden, while Luke held a full-time position at the Christian Village in Lincoln. Life took an unexpected turn when the Christian Village changed ownership and many dedicated employees, including Luke, were let go. Like so many families in our community, Audrey and Luke did everything they could to make ends meet during this difficult season—all while grieving a loss in their family and preparing for a move to Lincoln. Despite the challenges, the family never gave up on their goals. Luke was accepted into the Department of Corrections Academy in Decatur, where he graduated and is now serving as a Corrections Trainee at the Lincoln Correctional Center. Inspired by his success, Audrey has also been accepted into the Department of Corrections Training Academy and is preparing to begin her own career path in the field. Meanwhile, Eloise has grown alongside her parents’ progress. She successfully transitioned from the Early Head Start Home Base program into the Center Base classroom, where she is thriving with her teachers, Ms. Timbre and Ms. Lauren, since starting on August 18th. This family’s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience, determination, and hope that shine through when families partner with Head Start. Through encouragement, resources, and support, the program helps families navigate life’s challenges and move toward stability and self-sufficiency.  The family continues to inspire us with their hard work and commitment to building a brighter future—not only for themselves, but for their daughter Eloise.