There are some people who help others because they studied a subject in school. Then there are people like Kathy Zeller.

As director of Recovery Zone in Bellefontaine, Zeller spends her days helping individuals and families navigate addiction, recovery and mental health struggles. But her understanding of recovery didn't begin in a classroom or an office. It began with her own addiction.

"My story started with addiction," Zeller said. The first time came through prescribed pain medication. Years later, a medication prescribed for a swallowing disorder led her down the same path again.

That second struggle changed everything. Zeller’s spiritual journey began during several levels of medical detox that made a huge difference in healing and freedom from the shame that held her captive.

“It was the journey back to the person God created me to be,” she said

As part of her recovery, Zeller entered a 12-step program and was eventually paired with a Christian mentor. Years later, that relationship remains an important part of her life.

One of the most significant moments in her recovery came through the fourth step of the program, which involves taking a personal inventory and honestly examining character defects and harmful patterns.

"It uncovers things about yourself that can be difficult to face," Zeller explained. For her, the process mirrored something deeper. "I equate that with allowing the Holy Spirit to transform us," she said.

Although she had been religious for years, Zeller says it wasn't until that second addiction that her faith became personal.

"It went from religion to relationship," she said.

Today, she uses both her lived experience and professional education to help others find hope and healing.

Recovery Zone was incorporated in 1997 and has spent nearly three decades serving individuals impacted by addiction and mental health challenges throughout Logan County.

In November of 2017, Zeller was hired as director. Since then, the organization has continued to grow and expand its services.

Recent grants have helped expand transportation for meetings, making recovery resources more accessible for those who do not have reliable transportation. The organization's building has also undergone significant updates, creating a welcoming environment for those seeking help.

Recovery Zone operates a walk-in center Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 440 S. St. Paris St., offering support and resources to anyone who needs them.

A peer support line is available around the clock, and trained peer supporters provide one-on-one assistance to individuals navigating recovery, mental health challenges, or life transitions. The organization also hosts group meetings seven days a week.

One area that has seen significant growth is the jail program led by Dougie Boggs. The program helps connect incarcerated individuals with support and recovery resources, creating pathways toward a healthier future after release.

"Recovery looks different for everyone," Zeller said.

That philosophy is reflected in the variety of programs offered through Recovery Zone. In addition to recovery meetings and peer support, participants enjoy community events, activities, and field trips designed to build healthy relationships and reduce isolation.

Looking ahead, Recovery Zone continues to expand its reach. A new recovery group is being launched at Indian Lake, and a veteran who understands the unique challenges many service members face will lead another group specifically designed for veterans.

The organization will also soon offer Rooted, an eight-week support program for family members affected by a loved one's addiction. The group will be led by Sheila Clarkson and is designed to provide education, encouragement and practical tools for families walking through difficult circumstances.

Recovery Zone is a part of the Quick Response Team. In August, Recovery Zone will partner with local behavior providers, the health district and recovery courts to bring an event recognizing National Overdose Awareness Day, bringing the community together to remember lives lost and to offer hope to those still struggling.

For Zeller, every service offered through Recovery Zone comes back to a simple truth: people need hope. She knows because someone once offered that hope to her.

Those seeking support can visit Recovery Zone during walk-in hours or contact the peer support line at 937-210-9003.

"No one has to do this alone," Zeller said