Doug Wright, BCB Founder's Story

As I look at my background, it’s sad to say that I used to be this person! I’ve realize how much I have grown.  I have become passionate about sharing my life’s challenges and accomplishments with others, to assist them in being the best versions of themselves. I’m thankful for the opportunity to be able to be employed as a Certified Peer Specialist, with Landmark Recovery Center.

         I was born into addiction in 1974, my mother used heroin, alcohol, cocaine, popped pills, and smoked cigarettes while she carried me in her womb. I know my life experiences from childhood through adulthood can assist other individuals in seeing how important mental health is, acknowledging the role it plays in our life. Through that acknowledgment we can begin the process of a successful life. 

         I accumulated four DWI’s, seven driving while revoked or suspended charges, two forgery charges, two assault charges,  two possession charges, eight burglary theft charges, and six distribution manufacturing charges all between the years 2000 to 2019 (only traffic infractions since 2014).  I was 39 years old when I realized the ripple effect of my actions, to the community and my loved ones.  In March 2013, I was in prison and I began to work on myself. I attended anger management classes, coping skill classes, parenting classes, and victim impact class. I graduated from them all. I made a goal to be a better person for myself and once that happened, I will be able to help my Community and the at risk youth.  Deterring them from the actions similar to those of my past. Being an example of survival, and my journey through self realization. I’ve learned that my mental behavior and diagnosis played a critical role in my actions. So the more I understood my mental health, the more I understand myself. With being able to accomplish a more balanced mental health state, I love the opportunity to assist others in doing the same.

In November 2017, I created and founded A nonprofit organization,

Building Community Bridges. A 501(c)(3) organization that reflects the changes that I have made and the work that I do to serve our community. I have been back to prison, but not as an inmate, as a survivor, sharing my story. As a motivational speaker, I have worked with local recovery centers, youth group homes, and the homeless. I also created a YouTube channel to be able to share my story with others and encourage them to take steps to better themselves. 

        This organization allows me to continue my life mission in sharing my story, to be able to motivate people with similar struggles, diagnoses, and criminal backgrounds. I love helping others find ways to become a better version of themselves, and plan on doing this for as long as I’m living.