Leadership Team Stories

Zac V.

My time volunteering at the Alano Club has had a huge impact on my recovery, and in my life as a whole.  It has taught me that service to my fellow humans is of the greatest importance. The people I have come to value and admire  here are my biggest resource. The kindness and openness of my peers at the Alano Club never disappoints, and always reminds me the blessings I have are of no consequence if not shared with others. 

-Zac V.

Jodie Perzacki

It was over 35 years ago when I walked through the doors of the East Side Alano Club for the first time. I was a full blown teenage alcoholic & drug addict and felt as though my life was imploding on me. I knew I needed help, but was terrified by the notion of quitting drinking & drugging. My first meeting ever was at the Club in “the purple room”. I still remember the way I felt during this meeting. I don’t remember what was said by anyone, including myself, but I remember clearly feeling that I belonged there. I couldn’t believe that the people there knew and understood what I was feeling and experiencing. Everyone was so incredibly kind and compassionate. They shared their experiences – which helped me relate, they shared strength – which showed me that I too could become sober, and they shared their hope – which I needed more than anything at that time, as I was utterly hopeless when I walked through those doors.

I became a member of the Club as soon as I completed my treatment program. I went to meetings there nearly every day. I would hang out in the café and drink my new favorite drink – coffee! And I met some of the most important people of my life – who helped me by teaching me, offering love & support, service opportunities and friendship.

At a little over 2 years of sobriety I met my husband, Jim, at the Club. We began to hang out and it was a match made in heaven! We have been together for over 33 years, married for 28 years and we have 2 children - who have never seen either of us ever take a drink or drug. It’s truly amazing.

In the 90’s I served on the Board of Directors at the Club as the Activities Director. It was a wonderful experience! I learned so many valuable life lessons and was able to serve and support the Club that I love. When I was nominated to be on the Board again last September, I was humbled & honored. I am thrilled to be back serving at the Club.

Our Board of Directors is a group of talented and energetic people with hearts of gold. We have some amazing things planned for the health, growth and improvement of everyone at the club with recovery support and fun activities & events. We also have some exciting improvements planned for our beautiful historic building as well.

Keep coming back to see what the Club has in store for you and your recovery!

Yours In Service,

-Jodie P.

The MKE Alano Club has touched the hearts and lives of thousands of people in recovery, and they all have stories to go along with it. Check out some of those stories from our team of volunteers.