About Our Founder - Jeffrey J. Kegley
My Dad often said that if given the choice between spending time with the patients or the staff, he would choose the patients every time. It was this passion for helping people that spurred the founding of Addiction Recovery Systems (ARS). Our first facility in Charlottesville, Virginia was acquired May 1, 2004. In March 2005, we formally partnered with The Onix Group and acquired two programs located on the South Jersey Shore. Shortly thereafter, Dad was unexpectedly diagnosed with esophageal cancer. Cancer only strengthened his resolve to continue working on developing an environment of patient care that provides dignity and respect for all patients. During 2006, we opened our fourth facility, located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Shortly after Lancaster opened, Dad lost his battle with cancer. Dad’s passion for his work had often helped him through the darkest moments of his illness. Recognizing his contribution to the field, in 2007, Dad was awarded the William J. Schofield III award sponsored by the Pennsylvania Bureau of Drug and Alcohol Programs and The Institute for Research, Education and Training in Addictions.
Prior to founding ARS, Jeff was a veteran of private sector addiction treatment with more than 35 years in this specialty field. After having graduated with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Washington University, he went on to work at many levels in both inpatient and outpatient substance abuse treatment across the country. In 2001, he was appointed to the role of Survey Officer for CARF, one of the major accrediting bodies approved by the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment.
In 2008, ARS opened its fifth facility in New Castle, DE. Today, ARS continues to follow Jeff’s vision providing drug and alcohol addiction treatment in an environment that ensures dignity and respect for all patients.
Adam W. Kegley, co-founder
September 2008