Patrick Garrison’s journey with LCSNW began after dropping out of seventh grade. His life was marked by gangs, abuse, drugs, and crime. Facing time in the juvenile justice system, Patrick wanted nothing to do with our Wraparound with Intensive Services (WISe) program in the Tri-Cities, Washington, which he was ordered to attend.
Initially, Patrick was not open to receiving help. “How can you receive help when you don’t even care about yourself?” he recalled. Shortly after exiting WISe, he reverted to old habits.
The turning point came at age 16 when his father died. Although Patrick had begun working toward sobriety, he hit rock bottom with the loss of his father. “I knew if I didn’t change my ways, I’d end up dead or in prison.”
After moving in with an aunt who insisted he attend school twice a week, Patrick enrolled in high school in Richland. He reconnected with LCSNW through the school-based mental health program. Struggling with suicidal thoughts and self-harm, Patrick was enrolled in our SWIFT crisis stabilization program.
This time, Patrick took the program seriously, forming a strong bond with his care team, especially therapist Kari. She taught him healthier coping mechanisms and how to navigate life’s challenges while sober. “I never knew how to do anything sober,” Patrick admitted. “And I really didn’t know how to cope with my dad’s death being sober.” He also found solace in his newly formed Christian faith, realizing how much he needed help.
Patrick’s LCSNW team helped him through the difficult process of forgiving his late father. Inspired by his team’s genuine care, Patrick learned to manage his anger without resorting to violence. He respected his Youth Partner who shared personal experiences of overcoming similar struggles.
At age 18, Patrick began working, experiencing the pride of earning his own money. At 19, he graduated high school, after hearing more than once that he wouldn’t make it that far.
In March 2025, at 20 years old, Patrick shared his life experiences and lessons at the Tri-Cities Lutheran Brunch. He’s focused on giving back to the community, encouraging others to inspire positive change by sharing their stories.
”Lutheran showed love that I never experienced, and through that taught me how to show love back.”
