Our Impact
"Recovery Happens NWI provided the stability I needed to rebuild my life. Their compassionate support was the foundation of my long-term success."
James M.
"The workshops and events they organize have transformed how I view recovery. It's not just about sobriety; it's about building a community."
Sarah L.
"Accessible and high-quality support services are exactly what our community needs. I am proud to be part of a certified non-profit that truly makes a difference."
David R.
Meet Our Team
Our dedicated team of board members, officers, and volunteers is committed to fostering a supportive community for long-term recovery in Northern Indiana.
Larry A Jones CPRC
Executive Director
Richard L. Hardaway is a long‑time Merrillville resident with over 40 years in the community. He is married to Betty Hardaway and is the father of two daughters, with seven grandchildren and three great‑grandchildren.
He holds an AS in Operational Supervision from Indiana University Northwest, a BS in Management from St. Joseph’s College of Calumet, and a MS in Management from National‑Louis University.
Professionally, Richard retired after 33 years as a manager at U.S. Steel (LTV Steel).
He has an extensive record of civic and community leadership, including:
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Former Merrillville Town Council Member (2004–2023)
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Chairman, Recovery Happens
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Advisory Chairman, Salvation Army Gary/Merrillville Corps
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Member, Rebuilding Southlake County
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Lifetime Member, NAACP Hammond Chapter
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Member, Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC)
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Chairman of the Steward Board, Carter Memorial Christian Episcopal Church
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Member, Merrillville Fraternal Order of Police
He is an honorably discharged U.S. Army veteran and a member of American Legion Post 430.
Richard Hardaway
Board President
Victoria Handsley
Board Secretary/Treasurer
Pastor Michael Pirtle
Executive Director, Emma House Recovery Home for Women Board Member, Liberty House Recovery Café
Pastor Michael Pirtle is a dedicated leader, counselor, and minister with a lifelong commitment to service. A native of Brownsville, Tennessee, he began his journey in the United States Marine Corps in 1983, where he also embraced his Christian faith.
He served as Youth Pastor at New Friendship Baptist Church before founding The City of Refuge Christian Church of Merrillville, Indiana.
Pastor Pirtle has worked extensively in addiction recovery and behavioral health, including serving with Regional Mental Health.
He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in General Studies from Indiana University, a Master’s Degree in Clinical Addiction Counseling, and is a Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor (LCAC).
Pastor Pirtle is happily married to his wife, Linda, and together they have four children
Today, Pastor Pirtle continues to dedicate his life to helping people live productive, meaningful, and spiritually grounded lives.
Board Member
Adrienne Mordica CAPRC2
Adrienne is a Certified Peer Recovery Coach at Recovery Happens and Liberty House Recovery Café (NWI).
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She aims to advance her career as a Peer Recovery Coach/Supervisor, focusing on career‑focused education for individuals in recovery.
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Holds a Bachelor’s in Organizational Leadership from Indiana Tech University and a Certification in Addiction Studies from Ivy Tech Community College.
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Her experience includes mentoring and coaching peers through recovery, emphasizing instructional strategies for goal achievement.
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Joined Recovery Happens to expand her professional network and engage in adult education opportunities in recovery.
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Board member
Lalita M Jones CPRS
Lalita M. Jones is a passionate advocate for healing, wholeness, and empowerment. As a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist and the founder and owner of Walk in My Shoes Ministry, she brings a deep, compassionate perspective to supporting others through their personal journeys.
Lalita holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Counseling, blending professional recovery support with faith-centered guidance. Alongside her work in ministry, she is an ordained Prophetess dedicated to uplifting and inspiring her community. Above all, Lalita treasures her roles as a devoted wife and mother, which keep her grounded in love and family.
Volunteer Lead
Get in Touch
We are here to support your journey. Reach out to our team for information about our recovery programs, workshops, or to make a donation.
Email: recoveryhappensrco@gmail.com
Phone: (219) 789-1953