Gregory — A Renewed Sense of Purpose

“From the outside, it looked like I was doing great,” Gregory reflects. “But inside, I felt empty.”

Gregory, 43, grew up outside Boston. “After I left school, I lost my way,” he shares. “I didn’t have a strong support system and turned to substances to cope with feeling lost.”

His life began to change for the better when Gregory sought treatment. For the next nine years, he rebuilt his life. “I got a job at CVS and worked my way up to store manager,” Gregory says. “I had financial security, a condo, a car — everything I thought I wanted. But I was still without real support and feeling very alone.”

Then in 2024, Gregory relapsed. “I lost my job, my house, my car and my savings,” he says. “I realized I needed help. I entered a recovery program, where I learned about iCater, Pine Street Inn’s culinary training program.”

Now, Gregory wakes up with a sense of purpose. “I enjoy the fast-paced environment,” he shares. “I’m getting hands-on experience in a busy kitchen and learning practical skills like budgeting and mindfulness.”

Looking ahead, Gregory dreams big. “One day, I would love to open my own restaurant,” he shares. “I’m taking things day by day. Only this time, I’m not doing it alone.”