State Support Boosts Plans for Addiction Recovery Center in Crete

State Senator Patrick Joyce expressed his growing support for the idea of a live-in addiction recovery center at a 68-acre horse ranch in Crete, a vision brought to life by founder Jim O’Connor. ‘That guy is high energy,’ Joyce noted, emphasizing his confidence in the program’s potential success, both locally and across the state.

Joyce credited O’Connor’s persistence and openness about his own recovery from alcohol abuse as influential factors. O’Connor’s personal journey led him to purchase property at the junction of East Bemes Road and South Klemme Road to establish Second Story Ranch. Joyce recalled urging O’Connor to present his idea to other state colleagues, convinced of the program’s value and the necessity of state support.

Following Joyce’s advice, O’Connor started a public capital campaign in December to fund the construction of facilities at Second Story Ranch. Planned developments include accommodations for up to 30 men in recovery, a 7,000-square-foot communal lodge, and two single-family homes for the project’s leadership team.

A significant boost came when Governor JB Pritzker signed the state budget, allocating $2 million to Second Story Ranch. O’Connor viewed this funding as a stepping stone to achieving his construction goals, aiming to start work this fall, completing the plan in two phases. ‘We took a moment to celebrate, and then it was time to get to work,’ O’Connor stated.

A rendering of a planned residential and community space at Second Story Ranch in Crete. (Aspen Group)

With a grant from the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, O’Connor plans to initiate construction on housing for staff and essential ranch infrastructure. He emphasized that the grant confirms shared belief in the transformational potential of recovery programs. Yet, he continues to seek an additional $3 million, hoping to finance the main lodge and residences through opioid settlement funds. Success here could see the program operational by 2027.

Director Jim O’Connor already engages those in recovery, offering paid work through the Recovery Community of Joliet. Witnessing the enthusiasm of workers reinforced his commitment to providing a supportive environment for those leaving 28-day inpatient programs.

Once operational, Second Story Ranch will offer its services for free to Medicaid-eligible participants statewide, collaborating with various organizations. Those interested in supporting the project can donate via the GoFundMe page by searching for Second Story Foundation charity.