Why I Show Up: A Conversation with Dallas 24 Hour Club Advocates Chair Tami Darlington
- 18 hours ago
- 3 min read
When Tami Darlington first walked into Dallas 24 Hour Club (The 24), she didn’t just find a place—she found a community.
“I was hooked immediately,” she shared. “I fell in love with the staff. I fell in love with everything that The 24 did.”
What began as a simple introduction through her sponsor quickly turned into something much deeper. From attending Steak Night to volunteering and giving back, Tami knew she wanted to be part of something that was clearly changing lives.
A Place That Feels Like Family
For Tami, what makes The 24 so special is the feeling you get when you walk through the doors.
“There’s good energy here. There’s love here. There’s commitment here. It feels like family here.”
That sense of connection is what drew her to the Advocates program—starting with something as simple as helping assemble Welcome Kits.
“I said yes—and yes some more—and what else can I do?”
Why the Advocates Matter
Today, as the Dallas 24 Hour Club Advocates Chair, Tami plays a key role in supporting Residents through hands-on service projects like Welcome Kits, Resident Stocking, the Resident Toy Market, and move-out gifts for Tillman House Residents.
But for her, it’s about much more than the projects.
“I feel connected to the Residents. I feel connected to the mission. I want everyone to succeed here.”
She describes the Advocates as a bridge—connecting the community to the life-changing work happening inside The 24 and helping reduce the stigma around addiction and recovery.
The Moment That Says It All
One experience stands out for Tami.
During the Resident Toy Market, she helped a Resident pick out gifts for his niece and nephew—children he was working hard to reconnect with.
“He told me how important it was to rebuild that relationship… and he wanted to honor them with something meaningful.”
As they stood there together, choosing gifts, the impact of that moment was undeniable.
“That’s why we do that.”
Why She Keeps Coming Back
For Tami, volunteering isn’t something she gives—it’s something she receives.
“When I give, I really receive more.”
She’s seen firsthand how Residents grow, how loneliness fades, and how fellowship builds.
“To watch the progression… to see that loneliness vanish and fellowship grow around them—it’s incredible.”
More Than a Place to Stay
Tami is passionate about helping others understand what Dallas 24 Hour Club truly is.
“It’s not a homeless shelter… It’s a program. Residents make a commitment, and they honor that commitment.”
In return, they’re met with support, dignity, and access to resources that help them rebuild their lives.
“It gives them dignity. I would want that for myself.”
An Invitation to Get Involved
For anyone thinking about becoming an Advocate, Tami’s advice is simple:
“Just come. Just start. It’s not scary. It’s not intimidating. It’s one of the most wonderful things I look forward to.”
Looking Ahead
Tami hopes to see the Advocates program continue to grow—especially in ways that allow for more connection and engagement with Residents.
“I would love to see more awareness… and more opportunities for interaction.”
Be Part of the Mission
For Tami, being an Advocate is more than volunteering—it’s being part of something that truly changes lives.
“I want other people in the community… to see what a treasure this place is.”
The Advocates are a group of dedicated supporters who come together to serve Residents, build community, and support recovery in meaningful, hands-on ways throughout the year.
Whether it’s assembling Welcome Kits, supporting Residents during the holidays, or simply showing up, Advocates play a vital role in creating connection, dignity, and hope.
If you’re looking for a way to give back, get involved, and be part of a community that makes a real impact, we invite you to join the Advocates. Because sometimes, the most meaningful thing you can do… is simply show up.