Wings of Freedom opens Saratoga Sober Center in Tulsa

TULSA, Okla. — Wings of Freedom has officially opened the Saratoga Sober Center, transforming the Saratoga Motel into sober living apartments.

The program has already saved Oklahoma taxpayers an estimated $35.4 million and helped nearly 2,000 graduates reunite with their families in a drug-free environment.

Rebecca Kocher, Financial Officer, shared why she volunteers.

“I actually came here from Eddie Dixie Warrior correctional where I did two years in prison. Pastor Dixie came and volunteered, and I first learned about the program,” Kocher said.

Pastor Dixie Pebworth, founder of Wings of Freedom, told us his dream in starting this service.

“Our desire is to restore and transform people's lives. We love people, and we help people. It’s all based on love. Find their purpose, they find their life, and our goal is to find their purpose,” Pebworth said.

Kocher is able to share her story to impact others.

“They get discouraged, and I tell them about my story and how I accomplished it. If I can do it, they can do it, too,” Kocher said.

Kocher also has a message to all those that are struggling.

“I just want people to know who are struggling with addiction; there's a way out, and if you want it, you can find it. The only way that changed it is when I brought God into my life,” Kocher said.

Amanda Shands, a case manager and mentor, has a similar story.

“I came out of treatment to Wings of Freedom and knew that’s what I wanted. I wanted sobriety. I stayed, and in that process, you build connections to stay sober” Shands said.

She emphasized the mission Wings of Freedom has to get people sober.

“It's just what this place does: like-minded people who have been where I was, a group of people who knew what I was going through and knew how I felt.”

The Saratoga Sober Center aims to break the cycle of addiction, incarceration and homelessness, empowering individuals with lifelong problem-solving skills for success.

For more information of Wings of Freedom and how you can help, click here .