CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) - This week's Difference Maker features a man in Chicago's Rogers Park neighborhood who is helping those fighting addiction.
Peter Medlock’s family has been in Rogers Park for generations.
“When you tell people that you live in Rogers Park, they’re like, ‘Oh that’s far away.’ I’m sort of like, ‘Ya, it is, you’re right.’” Medlock tells WBBM.
His life changed directions after his uncle passed away, leaving him a big house on Jarvis Avenue.
One day, at a Wu Tang Clan concert, an idea came to Medlock. He says he was compelled to turn the property into a recovery home.
The idea was inspired by people he loves.
“Unfortunately, like most families, my family is riddled with addiction, from alcoholism to process addictions,” Medlock says.
The Sangha House started about a year ago, as partially a meditation center hosting different classes. It includes the popular Sunday night Sound Bath and Gong Wash.
“[The] core principle of the house is to pair recovery with a creative outlet,” Medlock says WBBM.
The home also hosts a six-month cohort for four people that works on sobriety.
Medlock says the art and music studios are part of the journey. Some of the creative output is sold at a storefront next to the house to fund the project.
Every concrete piece, statue, every t-shirt, candles are made with a 3D printer, Medlock says.
“[Participants] say because of this place they’ve been able to stay sober and start that recovery journey,” says Medlock.
The Sangha House provides creativity, mindfulness, and community and is a WBBM Difference Maker.
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