Sonya Wilander, executive director of Men’s Second Chance Living (MSCL House), has been chosen by the South Central Public Health District as the 2021-2022 Adult Volunteer Health Hero. Wilander has worked to protect, promote and enhance the health of Southern Idaho citizens by founding and operating the only sober home for men in the Wood River Valley.
MSCL House accepts individuals from Blaine, Camas, Cassia, Gooding, Jerome, Lincoln, Minidoka and Twin Falls counties, providing safe and sober living; access to medical, dental and behavioral healthcare; nutrition assistance; exercise and recreation; matched savings and financial education; and funding for higher education.
Wilander has built a reputation for going above and beyond in her role by promoting awareness of addiction and preventing the continued cycle of substance abuse for those desiring sobriety.
“I believe everyone deserves a second chance,” said Wilander. “Before MSCL House, there were no options to provide a second chance for men in our valley who are struggling with addiction. Our mission is to help them maintain their sobriety, regain their independence and ultimately reintegrate into the community.”
A celebration will be held to honor Wilander at 11 a.m. May 18, 2022, at the South Central Public Health District building in Twin Falls: 1020 Washington St. N. on the CSI Campus.
MSCL House is also celebrating funding it has received for operations for the 2022 fiscal year from the Wood River Women’s Foundation Fund in the Idaho Community Foundation. The $20,000 grant toward MSCL House’s operating budget will strengthen and sustain their work by covering the necessary day-to-day expenses, including residential staff support, home management and supervision, and home maintenance and repairs.
Residential staff and house mMSCL Executive Director Sonya Wilander
Photo credit: Men’s Second Chance Livinganagers are the keystones of MSCL House’s success, as they connect residents with services, support them in their recovery, and hold them accountable.
“MSCL House is grateful for the support and looking forward to a successful year of operating to the highest standard,” Wilander said.
