A new school program is helping students struggling with substance abuse, get back on their feet.

This fall, Herkimer College launched "Students Thriving at Recovery." The goal is to support and empower students while teaching coping methods.

"We want them to come in here and be comfortable and be themselves and not have the stigma behind what being in recovery is to some people," Laura Jacquays, Herkimer College Prevention Coordinator said.

The program also offers "natural high weekends" filled with fun trips and health classes.

One of the program's coaches is Robert Powers. He said drinking and drugs became his lifestyle while in seventh grade, and it continued for more than 25 years.

"Just struggles everyday. The more you drink, the more things get in your way," Powers said. "The stress accumulates and piles up, and you don't know how to handle it."

But two years ago, he regained control.

"My father passed about three years ago, and when he died the drugs and alcohol went with him," the now-Herkimer College student continued.

Powers hopes of becoming a social worker, but in the meantime, he working to help other students trying to recover. 

"We go over what their problems are, their addictions, it could be anything," Powers said. "Whatever we can do to pay it forward and help them."

"We're going to be having SMART recovery meetings which are support group meetings similar to NA and AA on a weekly basis," Jacquays added.

Powers says he sees himself in many of the students.

"Those are learning lessons. You're going to make mistakes. Leave that behind you," Powers said. "And never look back."