From Addiction to Advocacy: Ty Bechel’s Inspiring Journey of Recovery and Legacy

Ty Bechel, seated at the head of the table, shares his inspiring journey of recovery and legacy with Riverbend Rotary members, while his second daughter, Alley, listens attentively at his right.

At a recent Riverbend Rotary meeting, we had the privilege of hearing from Ty Bechel, the founder of AMARE, an organization focused on addiction recovery. Although Ty has since moved into the IT industry, his passion for helping people remains as strong as ever. His presentation was a deeply personal and inspiring account of his life journey, from battling addiction to becoming a community leader with a Master’s degree in Community Organizing. Now, Ty dedicates himself to connecting individuals in need with essential recovery resources, while also focusing on creating a lasting, positive legacy for his children.

Ty’s story is rooted in hardship, but the wisdom imparted by his grandmother played a pivotal role in his transformation. During his speech, he shared a profound piece of advice she once gave him: “What would the inscription on a statue erected in your honor say?” This question forced Ty to reflect on the kind of life he was living and what he wanted to be remembered for. It was a turning point that helped him focus on making decisions that would lead to a life of meaning and contribution. Her advice was more than just words; it was the spark that ignited his desire to change his life, overcome his addiction, and pursue a path that would leave a positive impact on the world.

Ty’s journey was far from easy. Addiction had taken a strong hold on his life, and it took immense effort, support, and perseverance to break free. He openly spoke about the difficulties he faced in recovery and the importance of listening to the people who truly care about you. For Ty, that was his grandmother, whose belief in his potential was unwavering. Her words and her love gave him the strength to push through his darkest days, and today, he stands as an example of how lives can be transformed with the right support and mindset.

In his pursuit of leaving a meaningful legacy, Ty now focuses on the impact his actions have on his children. He shared with us that he does everything with the goal of leaving behind something his children can be proud of, ensuring that they know the importance of kindness, resilience, and helping others. One of his daughters, Alley, was even in attendance at the meeting, a poignant reminder of the personal stakes involved in Ty’s commitment to positive change. For Ty, it’s not just about his personal success or overcoming addiction; it’s about setting an example for his children and for others in the community who may be struggling.

Ty’s current work in IT hasn’t diminished his passion for helping people. Even outside of AMARE, he remains dedicated to connecting people to the community resources they need to recover from addiction and rebuild their lives. His message to us was clear: no matter where you are in life, it’s never too late to turn things around. The advice and support of loved ones, like his grandmother, can be the difference between staying in a cycle of struggle and finding the strength to pursue a better future.

In sharing his story, Ty encouraged everyone to think about their own legacies. What would people say about us when we’re gone? Are we making the most of our lives, and are we leaving behind something meaningful for future generations? Ty’s journey is a reminder that second chances are possible, and with the right guidance, love, and perseverance, anyone can create a legacy they and their loved ones can be proud of.

Riverbend Rotary meets on Thursdays at Noon at Senior Services Plus in Alton. To learn more about Riverbend Rotary and become a member, visit our website at riverbendrotary.com.

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