Rosecrance event draws over 400, highlights 50 years of recovery in Siouxland

April 16 was a night filled with hope, connection, and real impact as more than 400 people came together in Iowa for “Life’s Waiting: A Night of Hope and Giving,” hosted by The Rosecrance Foundation.

The evening had an unmistakable sense of purpose. Friends, families, and supporters gathered to raise funds and to stand behind people working through substance use and mental health challenges.

It also marked 50 years of Rosecrance Jackson Centers serving the Siouxland community.

One of the most memorable moments came during keynote speaker Cris Carter, who shared his personal journey with honesty, talking about the highs of his football career, the struggles he faced off the field, and the path that led him to recovery.

The event also recognized several individuals whose dedication continues to strengthen the recovery community:

• Bill & Marienne Jackson Award: Bri Steffe
• Women Helping Women – Flo Warnstadt Award: Mandi Steensen
• Community Partner Award: Linda Kalin
• Free Spirit Award: Jesse Vogel
• Kermit Dahlen Legacy Award: Beth Dahl

Julie Enockson, President of Rosecrance Iowa, shared a milestone that underscored the organization’s far-reaching impact: in fiscal year 2025, Rosecrance Jackson Centers served more than 8,000 individuals and reached 89% of Iowa’s counties.

“We are very, very proud of that statistic and all our staff who make that good work happen,” Enockson said.

Rosecrance Behavioral Health CEO Dave Gomel captured the spirit of the night with a message of heartfelt thanks and reflection.

“Because of all of you, and because of our teams, we’ve been able to do some powerful things: Save lives and bring families back together,” Gomel said.

The evening closed with a renewed sense of purpose and a reminder that recovery is happening every day, strengthened by a community that shows up and cares.