GREEN TOWNSHIP, Ohio — Do you love someone who's battled addiction or mental health issues? If so, you probably know how they don't care to talk about it. WCPO Chief Meteorologist Steve Raleigh and his family are looking to turn that notion on its head with “Madi’s House," a free community center offering help during and after rehab.
“We're hoping we completely change that stigma … We don't want you to be quiet about it,” said Chelsea Raleigh. “Especially me. I'm super open. I've met a lot of people just telling my story who started opening up to me about their story.”
The Raleighs are on a mission to build a "bridge to better" for young adults struggling with addiction. On Friday afternoon, Steve, Julie and their children celebrated the opening of Madi's House, named for their daughter Madison, who inspired the mission.
Before she died by suicide in 2019, Madi often told them she wished for a place where young adults like her could go after treatment or rehab to prevent relapse.
Her dream was to create "community" in a safe spot, and that's exactly what Madi's House is.
Her image and influence are all over the space at 5081 Glencrossing Way -- from the games and fun things to do, to glitter and camouflage.
Madi's House also offers wellness programs, referrals and peer support for young adults.
“They've gone through treatment and rehab and they're trying to keep the journey moving forward,” said Julie Raleigh. “This is a relapse prevention and mental health community center. It is a free place to come … a place to join other people so they can really help each other.”
Madi's House hosts its first socially-distanced gathering Friday evening, with the goal of reducing the stigma surrounding recovery all this weekend.
If you'd like to learn more for yourself, for someone you love or to volunteer, find more information at www.madishousecincy.org.
