My name is Bryan Vulgamore, and I am writing this letter on behalf of my shared experience in F.I.R.S.T. (Friends In Recovery Standing Together) while incarcerated. I had the privilege of participating in this program alongside many great and wonderful people, and I can personally attest to the profound impact it had on not just my life, but many others as well .

F.I.R.S.T. is rooted in the principles of the Twelve Steps, offering a structured path toward self-reflection, accountability, and healing. Throughout my time in the group, I witnessed many other men fully embrace these principles, demonstrating a deep commitment to personal growth and recovery. Their dedication to the process was inspiring—not only did they work through their own challenges, but they also supported others in their journey, creating a space of trust, healing, and transformation.

For my self , this group was more than just a program—it was a turning point. Through out my  experiences in F.I.R.S.T., I develop a strong sense of self-awareness, inner peace, and a true desire to make amends and move forward with purpose. The tools I gained in this group became the foundation for the work I now do in the community: helping others find the same hope and healing that I found.

Many of us arrived in that space feeling lost, broken, and hopeless, but through the Twelve Steps and the unwavering support of the group, we found the strength to change. I saw men who had once been trapped in cycles of addiction and self-destruction begin to take responsibility for their lives, build healthy relationships, and find a sense of purpose. F.I.R.S.T. is a beacon of light in an environment where hope is often scarce, and F.I.R.S.T plays a significant role in fostering that light.

My journey through F.I.R.S.T. is a testament to the power of recovery. My dedication to helping others continues to reflect the very principles of how F.I.R.S.T has helped me change my own life. I have no doubt that F.I.R.S.T will continue to impact lives and will only continue to grow, touching the lives of many who are searching for a path to healing.