Pubdate: Fri, 10 Feb 2006
Source: Peterborough This Week (CN ON)
Copyright: 2006 Peterborough This Week
Contact:  http://www.peterboroughthisweek.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1794
Author: Lance Anderson
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/rehab.htm (Treatment)

EX-CON OFFERS ADDICTION PROGRAM

Jamie McMahon is embracing the challenge of helping people through 
the same problems that plagued his life.

Starting this month, Mr. McMahon will deliver an addictions treatment 
and pre-employment training course for Aboriginal people. He's been 
down the same road before, once being arrested for the attempted 
robbery of a cab driver in 2002.

He's been out of jail since May 2005 and has managed to turn his life 
around, staying clear of the temptations of drugs and alcohol. He's 
been taking courses through Whitepath Counselling Services in 
Peterborough to become a counsellor and is looking forward to 
delivering his first program.

"I like to help people...I've gone through it myself and it's not an 
easy road," says Mr. McMahon.

He says he will relate his personal experiences to the group.

Currently a cook at a local restaurant, Mr. McMahon says his dream is 
to become a counsellor. He says Whitepath is keeping him busy and is 
helping him receive the training he needs. Eventually, Mr. McMahon 
says he may be sent to Native reserves across Canada to counsel people.

"It's a good opportunity for me," he says.

In addition to Mr. McMahon's addictions and pre-employment program, 
Whitepath is also offering a 20-day Healing and Wellness for Women 
program. Mr. McMahon says it will help abused women cope with their 
daily struggle.

For more information on any one of the programs, call Whitepath, 740-2003.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom