Michael Longs is the executive director and founder of the R.I.G.H.T. Program, a state sanctioned Los Angeles- based drug and alcohol rehabilitation program.
Longs, a former gang-banger and addict, has used his experiences with alcohol and controlled substances to assist others struggling with abuse. Long experienced the devastating effects of such a lifestyle through the loss of a brother who succumbed to addiction. –constance collins
Tell us about the R.I.G.H.T. Program.
It’s a free, yearlong program that was established in 2005. We use a 12-step program but with no rigid structure. We don’t use social models or anything like that. We treat everyone on a trial-by-trial basis. We understand that what may work for one person may not work for another person so essentially we use the 12-step program, but we tailor it to each individual. We have a great staff that consists primarily of ex-addicts … 60 percent actually graduated from this program. The counselors are formally trained and certified, and they also use their own experiences to help others overcome their addiction.
What is the program’s mission?
We strive to help as many minorities as possible to get clean and to make the most out of life. We want to show people that there is more to life besides drugs, alcohol, county checks and jail. I want to show people how to be self-sufficient. I want to give people hope. The program is designed to help motivate our people to change their lives and get on the right path.
What do you hope to accomplish with the R.I.G.H.T. Program in the future?
Right now, we are based in L.A., but I would like to expand the program throughout the United States and eventually to different countries.
We are trying to add a school as well. Most of the patients cannot even read so I’m going to create a tutoring program to help those people. I want to add computer labs and a computer literacy program to teach the patients how to use computers because nowadays it’s essential. … But more than anything, we want to continue to help people combat addiction.
