In 2009, Karis was accepted into the King County Drug Diversion Court (KCDDC) program. She successfully graduated Drug Court in 2011. She decided to “Give back the gifts that were given to me” by obtaining her substance use degree and working as a treatment counselor. She went on to continue her education, receiving her BSSW and MSW degrees. Today, Karis is now the Clinical Practices Manager with Pioneer Human Services at their King County Residential Treatment Program. Karis shares with great appreciation for KCDDC. “If it wasn’t for God and KCDDC, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Drug Court provided me with encouragement, accountability, and a structure that I desperately needed. Oftentimes, the Court knew what I needed more than I did. To this day, if I needed anything, I could call them, and they would offer guidance or support. My relationship with KCDDC didn’t end when I graduated. Being accepted into KCDDC saved my life and helped me become who I am today.”
