2 MOTHERS BECOME 1ST DRUG-COURT GRADUATES

Program Helps Parents Overcome Substance Abuse

Photo by Rudy Gutierrez / El Paso Times One-year-old Karen Medina,
right, clapped while in the arms of her mother, Elena Medina, who
successfully completed the Family Drug Court program Thursday in 65th
District Court.

The first two graduates of Texas' only Family Drug Court were
recognized Thursday for completing the program and staying drug-free
and sober.

El Paso's Family Drug Court, founded last October by 65th District
Court Judge Alfredo Chavez, is one of 19 in the nation. The program
was designed to assist parents who have a drug or alcohol problem that
affects their ability to care for their children -- and who want help
for that problem.

After graduates complete the program, they are reunified with their
children.

Flanked by eight judges, the two graduates, Irene Jimenez, 32, and
Elena Medina, 39, were awarded certificates of completion.

"Without this program I wouldn't have made it," Jimenez said.

The court, funded by Children's Protective Services, is a four-step
program with comprehensive case management, treatment phases, drug and
alcohol assessment, court appearances and drug testing. The program,
which lasts about one year, is voluntary. An agreement form must be
signed by the clients and their lawyers.

"I saw the need here in El Paso," Chavez said about starting the
Family Drug Court. "Many parents are having children removed ...
because of substance abuse. If they are able to maintain their
sobriety, their chances of getting their children back are greater."

Holding her 2-year-old daughter, Medina -- too choked up to make a
speech -- thanked her mother, Maria Rubalcava, for being supportive.
Chavez presented Rubalcava a rose.

One of Medina's other daughter's, Xochitl Borunda, was at the ceremony
Thursday to support her mother: "I'm really proud of her. She's come a
long, long way."

To graduate from the program, participants must complete
substance-abuse treatment, acquire a job and a home and receive some
form of academic education.

Chavez said he has asked the two graduates to come back and be mentors
for others in the program. Eight other people are now in the program,
he said.

For more information: 351-8853 or 546-2102.

Jennifer Shubinski may be reached at jshubinski@elpasotimes.com