At a men’s addictions recovery centre in Penticton, B.C., the sound of mechanical tools and a revving motorcycle fills the air, giving patients hope and purpose. For months, 12 men at Discovery House Recovery have been carefully building a new motorcycle, piece by piece. The plan is to raffle the bike to raise funds for more treatment beds, supporting more people struggling with addiction.
The fundraiser addresses a critical need, said Blaine Russell, executive director of the Penticton Recovery and Resource Society, which runs three Discovery House homes. Currently, 25 men are supported through various stages of recovery at Discovery House. However, the waitlist fluctuates between 25 and 35 people, showing the pressing demand for more treatment spaces. “The need to expand is crucial for us,” Russell said.
The motorcycle project is part of the centre’s recovery program, designed to help men rebuild their lives while learning new skills. The team began with the frame, then worked on brake lines and other components. After months of effort, the pearly white bike, named the Chopper of Hope, was completed with support from local businesses, board members, and staff.
“It was huge to see it start for the first time and hear it run,” said Lucas Kellerman, a Discovery House resident. The project offered a break from long recovery days, which run from 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. “Having this project once a week put smiles on many faces,” Kellerman said. The 28-year-old has been at Discovery House for nearly six months. “I lived on the streets for about 10 years. This place helped me rebuild my life. I work full-time now and got my driver’s licence back. It has given me so many things,” he added.
Discovery House receives funding from the Canadian Mental Health Association, which supports 11 beds, and the Ministry of Social Development. The organisation also relies on private donations to continue its work. Giving back is part of the Discovery House program. The motorcycle was also built to honour Jerome Abraham, the home’s former executive director who passed away from cancer in 2024.
“Jerome was an amazing man. He did so much for this community and was a pillar in recovery here in Penticton,” said Caleb Pompeu, a current patient. Pompeu, who has struggled with addiction on and off for 25 years, said building the bike in Abraham’s memory has strengthened his recovery journey. “Recovery is a delicate dance, but seeing real change is amazing,” he said.
Across the Okanagan Valley, Interior Health reports 57 addiction treatment beds. Waiting times vary depending on the severity of each person’s need. Discovery House aims to raise close to $200,000 with the bike raffle. All proceeds will fund additional recovery beds in Penticton, providing hope to those still waiting. The raffle draw will take place on November 7.
The motorcycle project has become more than a fundraiser. It is a symbol of skill-building, healing, and community support, giving patients at Discovery House a reason to look forward to each day.
