The Cusack’s

        The seeds of Veritas Villa were planted during the difficult time Jim Cusack experienced in early recovery from alcoholism.  At that time, he vowed that if he could do anything with his life, he would make the transition from active alcoholism to sobriety a little less painful for others.  It was a dream and a mission that he clung to and believed would happen some day.  After a visit to the Shrine of American Martyrs, Auriesville, NY around his 12th year of sobriety, Mr. Cusack had the opportunity to begin his dream and mission.

        Mr. Cusack began his career in 1965 at Glenacre Lodge in Glen Spey, NY.  His early counseling experiences were difficult, so he turned to Hazelden for help and spent some time in Center City, MN learning about the Hazelden Model of Care.  Over many years, he was fortunate to be involved in establishing treatment as we know it today, including the founding of counseling credentials and helping to develop treatment standards both nationally and internationally.

        In 1973, Mr. Cusack and his wife and partner, Sue, were given an opportunity to develop the program now known as Veritas Villa, Inc. under the auspices of the Dominican Sisters of Amityville.  Their goal was to provide affordable treatment and quality care for people from all walks of life.  Veritas Villa was the first free-standing facility in New York State to provide residential treatment for alcoholics and for addicts.

        In 1981, the Dominican Sisters found they had to sell the property on which the Villa stood.  With the help of many friends, Mr. and Mrs. Cusack relocated the present Villa to Kerhonkson, NY where they have been for the past 26 years.  They have an exceptional staff and have been blessed with many years of helping and healing alcoholics, addicts and their loved ones.

        Today Mr. Cusack is sober 55 years and Mrs. Cusack for 38 years.  They are firm in their belief that “it is possible to live and enjoy life without alcohol and other drugs”.  They are actively involved on a daily basis with the Villa and the community, with no plans for retirement.  They feel blessed to be able to do what they love together.

 

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Featured Employee

My name is Matt Ryan and I would like to welcome you to our website. I am 25 years sober and have worked at Veritas Villa for 16 years. I am a counselor on the men’s clinical team. I presently work with the uniformed officers and union members that served at Ground Zero. I believe that unresolved trauma will ultimately prevent some people from getting sober therefore it needs to be addressed in a safe supportive environment in early recovery. I look forward to seeing you when you come to the Villa!