Patrick Patterson
Non-Profit and Recovery from Addiction Expert, Leader & Advocate
With a deep passion for enhancing the recovery landscape, Patrick is
committed to creating sustainable solutions for those affected by addiction. As
Executive Director of Blue Water Recovery & Outreach Center (BWROC) since 2018,
he leads the organization which includes securing funding and expanding community support. His advocacy extends across the State, serving as Vice Chair of the Michigan Opioid
Advisory Commission and President of the Michigan Association of Recovery
Community Organizations (MARCO). He co-authored Michigan’s first recovery
support services bill, which was updated in 2020, further strengthening the state’s
recovery systems of care.
Before joining BWROC, he spent a decade at Freedom One Financial Group,
Michigan’s largest independent 401(k) provider, where he managed financial services.
Patrick’s career is rooted in a dedication to supporting individuals in or seeking recovery,
and he continues to advise nonprofits on recovery initiatives. He holds a BA in Business
from Western Michigan University
Barbara Alexander
Barbara is the Center Manager at Blue Water Recovery and Outreach Center. She is a MCBAP Certified Professional Recovery Mentor, Recovery Coach Professional Facilitator for CCAR, State Certified Peer Recovery Coach through MDHHS, Certified Master Life Coach, Certified Medical Assistant, blessed mother of 3, and grateful person in long term recovery.
Barbara has dedicated her career to helping others find their way out of addiction and into the strength, hope, and light that recovery offers. Barbara is passionate about the multiple pathways to recovery that we offer at the Blue Water Recovery and Outreach Center and she has found purpose in advocating for others to find what helps heal, what gives hope, and how we can help each other on this journey of recovery. Barbara also facilitates CCAR Recovery Coach Academy classes, as well as Ethics courses to help those wanting to begin working in the recovery field.
None of us get through this battle alone and she is beyond honored to be able to advocate for those who come to us for help.
Nicole Bickel
Born in September 1986 in Oakland County, Michigan, Nicole Bickel has always been deeply committed to personal growth, community support, and making a meaningful impact on the lives of others. Raised in the heart of Michigan, she graduated from Warren Woods Tower High School and went on to pursue higher education, earning an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration from St. Clair Community College. This academic foundation set the stage for her future in recovery coaching and personal development.
Nicole’s passion for helping others led her to develop a diverse set of skills and certifications. She is a Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Certified Peer Recovery Coach, a Michigan Certification Board for Addiction Professionals (MCBAP) Certified Peer Recovery Mentor, and holds an MCBAP Development Plan for Prevention Specialist certification. Additionally, she is a Master Life Coach and a Yoga Instructor, equipping her with a well-rounded approach to supporting individuals in their recovery journeys.Since May 2020, Nicole has served as a Recovery Coach at the Blue Water Recovery and Outreach Center (BWROC). In this role, she utilizes her exceptional communication skills, active listening, and expertise in recovery advocacy to support individuals and families. Specializing in aiding families struggling with Child Protective Services (CPS) due to substance use, Nicole provides compassionate guidance to those navigating some of life’s toughest challenges.
Nicole is known for her unwavering integrity, professionalism, and dedication to the recovery community. Her expertise and tireless commitment have made her a trusted advocate, helping clients find hope, resilience, and empowerment. Whether working one-on-one with clients or raising awareness for systemic issues, Nicole is driven to create lasting change and improve the lives of those she serves.
Outside of her professional life, Nicole is a passionate advocate for personal growth and well-being. She enjoys outdoor activities like hiking, mountain climbing, and yoga, and is an avid traveler. She also enjoys engaging in community events and staying involved in initiatives that foster positive change. Continuously seeking new opportunities to learn and grow, Nicole aspires to continue supporting individuals through recovery, fostering resilience, and advocating for families facing difficult circumstances.
Driven by a strong sense of purpose, Nicole Bickel remains dedicated to making a lasting impact, one person at a time, through her work in recovery coaching and her broader commitment to holistic well-being.
Elijah Bennett
Elijah is a grateful recovering addict and Peer Recovery Coach at BWROC. He is from Port Huron, MI, and a present father of 2 girls. He has been in recovery since 02-06-2020 by applying the 12 step programs and by the grace of his Higher Power. Through the process of recovery he has learned a new way to live and gained tools to become a productive member of society. He went from having a life that felt like it was not worth living, to having a bountiful and filling life that is full of limitless opportunities. His recovery has been an path of self discovery, recognition, spiritual awakenings and growth.
At this stage of his journey, Elijah is committed to self maintenance, continued growth and most importantly, helping others who are seeking recovery. Since being in recovery he’s given back to the community in many ways. Some of these include volunteering at the county jail, providing service work at multiple meetings, sponsoring others, and helping people find success in their recovery journey.
Elijah believes he could be even more of an impact to the community by furthering his education, becoming more involved in other pathways and spreading awareness. He loves what he does and feels it is his purpose to help others. “Recovery has given me a better life than I’ve ever known. It is possible for me, so I’m here to let people know that recovery is possible for anyone.”
Eric Rivait
Eric was born in Detroit, Michigan. After years of battling addiction, he took the brave step to seek help in 2022. Relocating to Port Huron, Eric discovered a new path to life when he encountered the principles of co-dependence. He dedicates himself to assisting everyone who enters The Blue Water Recovery and Outreach Center. With his warm smile, grace, and positive attitude, it’s hard not to leave his presence feeling inspired and hopeful. Eric is a certified Peer Recovery Coach through the state of Michigan. In his free time, Eric enjoys working out at the gym and spending time with his cat, Franky.
He also loves exploring the beautiful landscapes around Port Huron, finding peace in nature’s serenity. Whether it’s a stroll along the waterfront or a hike through the lush trails, these moments recharge his spirit and reinforce his commitment to wellness and recovery. Eric often shares these experiences with others in the recovery community, organizing group outings that blend physical activity with camaraderie and support. His journey serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that with determination and the right support, transformation is possible. Through his work and personal passions, Eric continues to inspire those around him, proving that a fulfilling and meaningful life is within reach for anyone willing to take the first step toward change.
Samantha Whitten
As a dedicated Peer Recovery Coach for BWROC, Samantha works at Harbor Oaks Hospital where she brings a unique blend of personal experience and professional insight to her role. Her journey with addiction began at the young age of 12, with alcohol and marijuana becoming part of her life. Despite recognizing her struggles, it wasn’t until a seizure in 2020 that she took the courageous step to enter rehab and transform her life. With 20 years of experience as a journeyman boilermaker in the building trades, Samantha has developed a strong work ethic and resilience that she now channels into her passion for helping others. After completing her recovery, she decided to pursue her lifelong interest in human behavior and plans to transfer to Wayne State in Fall 2025 to earn her undergraduate degree in Social Work. A proud mother of four, Samantha finds joy in exploring the world and learning about diverse cultures. She also values her time in nature, often taking daily walks in the woods with her beloved golden retriever, where she practices grounding and meditation. Through her work, Samantha is committed to empowering others on their recovery journeys and making a positive impact in the community. “The true discovery of the journey comes not from seeing new landscapes but from having new eyes” Marcel Proust
Kelly Rivard
Kelly began her recovery journey in 2017 and has been an inspiring example of resilience and dedication ever since. A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Kelly spent seven years working in the mental health field before joining BWROC in January 2025 as a Recovery Support Specialist.
An active member of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Kelly is deeply committed to her recovery, working closely with her sponsor on a regular basis.
Kelly is happily married, the proud mother of two children, and a devoted grandmother to her grandson. She treasures her free time with her family, enjoying activities such as traveling, reading, and walking. Kelly also has a deep love for music and is passionate about giving back to the community, exemplifying her caring and compassionate nature in every aspect of her life.
Transportation Team
Jimmy Dimon – Head of Transportation
Dan Craig – Transportation Driver
Tyrel Barker – Transportation Driver
