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Kelsey and Malakia found hope and healing. Courtesy photo

Healing House KC: Where Love Resides and Healing Begins

Down in Kansas City’s Northeast side, where Victorian mansions stand like time capsules from another era, there’s a place where second chances aren’t just talk – they’re a way of life. Healing House KC started with one woman’s dream and grew into something nobody saw coming.

Underwriting for this feature was provided by the Horn Law Foundation.

That woman is Bobbi Jo Reed, and she runs this show with the kind of wisdom you can only get from walking the walk. “My journey has been one of redemption, grace, and purpose,” she told Metro Voice, and you can hear both the battles and victories in her voice. “Years ago, I was trapped in the cycle of addiction.” Now she’s calling the shots at an organization that houses more than 220 people— parents, kids, and all— giving them the three things she swears by: a stable roof, people who get it, and faith to lean on.

Since 2003, what started as a single house has turned into something of a recovery empire. Today, there are 14 houses and 3 apartment buildings. Reunification with families happens as participants achieve the required steps.

healing house

Erin’s House has seen many lives transformed. Courtesy photo.

Want proof it works? Just ask 90% of their staff, who have a personal recovery story themselves. You see, what sets Healing House apart is their unique peer-to-peer nonprofit model. “This shared experience creates a profound level of empathy and understanding,” states Bobbi Jo.

healing houseOr ask Kentrell—who showed up looking for help and is now a house leader at one of their men’s houses. As he tells it, “Because of Healing House, I was able to reconnect with my family, build strong relationships, and find a purpose in helping others in their recovery journey.”

They don’t call Bobbi Jo “Mom” for nothing around here. Everyone who’s been a part of this program will tell you how much she cares, always looking out for them like a true mother figure. She celebrates their victories and feels for them in their struggles. It’s this kind of supportive, family-like bond that brings their recovery community together—lifting each other up and offering a helping hand whenever it’s needed. “We gather around the table to share meals because recovery goes beyond just staying sober,” Bobbi Jo shares, “it’s about forming a tight-knit community where everyone feels safe, valued, and understood, as they embark on their journey to recovery.”

They offer more than just a place to stay; they provide a genuine family environment that embodies a favorite saying around there, “Welcome Home!” And that phrase is not just a saying—it’s a deeply ingrained culture. Here, everyone who walks through their doors becomes part of a supportive, loving community that fosters healing and growth.

The Recovery Community Center (RCC) at Healing House isn’t just another rehab spot. Sure, they’ve got the usual stuff— classes, counseling, mentors helping people find jobs. But there’s something different about this place. Maybe it’s because they’re playing the long game, mixing recovery with something deeper.

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Bobbi Jo.

Bobbi Jo gets it better than most: “Because when people are early in recovery, you know, the family’s been fractured. We’re not just helping individuals; we’re helping rebuild families and communities.”

The award-winning documentary “Bobbi Jo: Under the Influence” tells her remarkable story. Bobbi Jo’s take on it all? “God has never told me, ‘Bobbi Jo, you’re done, have a seat.’ God motivates my heart to see where the need is.”

They’ve weathered their share of storms— vandals, COVID, you name it. But every time trouble comes knocking, KC shows up stronger. Those old Victorian houses they’ve fixed up? They’re like a metaphor for the whole operation— taking something broken and making it beautiful again.

Healing House graduates surround Bobbi Jo. Courtesy photo.

 

These days, they’re reaching thousands through all sorts of programs. Bobbi Jo’s straightforward about it: “For 24 years, we’ve been a beacon of hope in the Northeast Neighborhood of Kansas City.” The pride in those words? It’s earned. Recently, the organization received accreditation in Case Management and Services Coordination for Substance Use Disorders. “Receiving this additional accreditation is a testament to the dedication of our team and the effectiveness of our programs,” said Bobbi Jo. “We are committed to continuously enhancing our services to meet the highest standards and improve the lives of those we serve.”

Looking ahead, they’re growing but keeping it real. As Bobbi Jo says, “Nothing like seeing somebody’s life change.” Her eyes still light up when she says it, like it’s the first time all over again.

In a city known for barbecue and blues, Healing House KC is writing its own kind of love song— one about second chances, found family, and the kind of hope that shows up right when you need it most.

–Dwight Widaman | Editor of Metro Voice News

Underwriting for this feature was provided by the Horn Law Foundation. The mission of the Foundation is to both support and highlight Kansas City non-profit organizations that provide services to individuals and families who are facing a crisis.

Want to help underwrite features appearing in the Metro Voice and partner in our work supporting the local community? Contact me at dwight @ metrovoicenews.com or call 816-524-4522.

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