Friends of Recovery Oswego County (FOROC) has announced that Virginia Bough has been named the agency’s executive director.
Established to promote strategies and solutions for long-term recovery, Friends of Recovery of Oswego County (FOROC) provides information, non-clinical support and education for those impacted by substance use disorders, including individuals in recovery, as well as their families and friends.
Bough, who holds a bachelor’s degree in human development from SUNY Oswego, has worked in the human services field for more than 30 years, including at Oswego County Opportunities and Catholic Charities. Most recently Bough worked at ACR HEALTH in Syracuse where she was involved with community education, community collaboration, and capacity building.
As executive director, Bough is charged with creating and maintaining a trauma informed, culturally competent environment; one that prioritizes the well-being of staff and volunteers, as well as sustaining recovery for individuals and their families by supporting all pathways to recovery and decreasing the stigma of substance use disorder. She will also take the lead in collaborating with other organizations and advocating for legislation and services that aid in recovery.
“I have a passion for human services,” said Bough. “My sister always said that I wanted to know why people do the things they do. It’s true. I enjoy the cultural aspects of what makes communities thrive. It’s rewarding that I can play a part in people having the opportunities to make positive changes in their lives. My focus is on empowering people so that they may overcome the barriers they face, achieve their goals, and reach their full potential. The mission of FOROC aligns well with my vision of providing individuals with the information and tools necessary to make their own choices so that they can indeed live their best life.”