The New Life II Center in downtown New Britain seeks to expand people’s understanding of what recovery means, Pastor Dana Smith says.
New Life II, led by Pastor Dana Smith and Pastor Evelyn Smith, has just opened a new Recovery Community Center in the heart of the city, at 117 West Main Street.
Pastor Dana Smith says that the inspiration for the new Center includes the difficulties, challenges and trauma that many people have experienced because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Smith says that a wider understanding of what recovery means is important to lift up individuals and neighborhoods.
“New Life II was created by the community,” the organization says, “and we are here for our community!”
Pastor Smith, who has recently completed serving as President of the North-Oak Neighborhood Revitalization Zone, says that a large part of the vision for the new Center is for people to come together in work to assist and support neighborhoods, build community and lift people up.
New Life II points to its work as, “Connecticut’s first Black-owned faith-based community organization,” saying that it, “is involved in community re-entry from the prison system. We provide diverse, community focused trainings, rooted in anti-oppressive philosophies, and person-centered values.”
The organization says that its work includes, “housing peer-support education,” “integrative healing facilitator training,” information on, “the facts and myths about peer-support,” “intentional peer support core training in additions and substance use,” and, “Narcan trainings and safe-use kit distribution.”
“Our trainings are for everyone! We train the faith based community – social workers – public servants – community leaders and more,” New Life II says. “Give us a call or visit our website – we’d love to connect with you and explore the possibilities.” New Life II’s website is at Newlife2.org.
The New Life II Center prominently displays a photo of Jonathan McKenzie, who Pastor Smith points to as a New Britain resident who was failed by a system that should have helped him, and ultimately took his own life.
Pastor Smith says that recovery services should be about reaching out to each individual to help find a path forward, rather than simplistic or punishing policies society often uses.
Hope and belief that a better future is possible, Pastor Smith says, is an important part of assisting and supporting people and neighborhoods and building community together.
