Testimonials

Over the many years we have garnered hundreds of letters from our clients and deeply value their sentiments, some of which can be found below:

This is easily the best DUI program in the desert. No one wants to find themselves in a position where they have to take classes like these, but if you do, this is the place to take them.

Great staff, easy to work with. I highly recommend them!

Big thanks to Jackie and the rest of the staff!

Female – 2024

To the incoming participants at the Alert Program:

“… You may feel initially that this course is part of your punishment for your mistake, but in reality, it’s a second chance at righting your wrongs, and teaching you how to learn from your experience and turn the negative into a positive.

My particular group included a wide variety of people, and once everyone had settled into the swing of things, we were all able to open up, share, and participate. Don’t be afraid to be honest and join in the discussions and activities. No one is judging you – everyone is in the same boat. Don’t be shy, aloof, or negative. Embrace the experience and participate! Trust me, it really isn’t as bad as you think it’s going to be. You get out what you put in.

Overall, the course was extremely well devised, well run, and excellent value for money. You can pay in full, monthly, or pay-as-you-go. Be there in good time, refreshed, energized, and ready to roll. Go in with a positive mental attitude and you’ll reap the rewards…”

Male – 2023

Dear Alert Program:

Thank you very much for such an amazing class [final] last night. And no, I am not being sarcastic. Just wanted to seriously thank you to you and to all involved for such a great ending to a solid program.  I also want to take a moment from our days just so you know that it does mean a lot to me, and I hope you continue to touch as many of these beautiful souls at such a troubling time for them.

Male – 2022

Dear Ms. Stewart, I am entirely in-debited to you and your staff there.  I was completely in denial about my drinking problem and its effect upon others.  Your counsellors and even the other participants helped me understand the core issues behind my drinking and absence of responsibility for it.  I can testify that the road to recovery is difficult but possible with help such as is found at the Alert Program.  It continues to be hard even after 9 months of sobriety.  Thanks also for your belief in me even after I stumbled a couple of times.  The AA meetings were and continue to be a benefit – your encouragement to me to stay the course is paying off.  Again, with sincere thanks –

Male – 2021

Dear Jackie, I am so appreciative for your program.  Even tho the whole experience was hard, the Alert Program was a bright spot!  I completely enjoyed the zoom classes and the people in them.  It was good to know there are so many others struggling with the same issues as I am.  As you know, I’ve quit “the habit” and am so much more confident and positive!

God bless ya’ll!

Female – 2021

Dear Alert Staff, writing to say thanks so much for helping me though this very difficult period in my life.  You were the only ones that really took the time! I also enjoyed the on-line classes, my counselor, Noe was great!  It helped me understand that my issues were controllable and with time, can be overcome.  I never thought I get through it, but did!  Thanks again.

Female – 2020

Well I did it!  I finished my 9mo program (Covid or not;).  I will miss my Monday night group with Noe [he’s] a fine Counselor, mentor and all around compassionate caring person with high integrity…  I truly believe our entire community benefits from your program. What a relief to know this program exists!

My eyes are open and I take complete responsibility to never be under the influence of ANY substance and get behind the wheel of a car!  You won’t see me in your classes again… this I can promise, although I hope to see you in better circumstances.  Thank you all for your service and care in helping me navigate this sometime scary process, but needed outcome!  I truly wish I had the power to give out gold stars or very top honors…

Thanks again and many blessings!

Female – 2020

Jackie,  I really appreciated going to the Alert Program.  At first, I was thinking that this was just a part of some sort of punishment for a victimless crime.  But over time, I came to realize that my denials were not just isolated to that particular perception.   I had been in denial over my drinking for so long that I had lost all perception of reality and that lying to myself and others had become a chronic condition.  It took 9 months of sobriety (and counting) and your program to get me to begin to correct all of the damage.  I know I’m not out of the woods yet 😉  but I am thinking clearer now and know that I owe much of my new life to you.  Thank you for helping to save me from myself.

Male – 2019

Dear J:  Please convey to my counselor that I think she’s awesome!  The way she related to our struggles with drinking and how it impaired our abilities to reason and make good decisions changed my life!   I could not believe how selfish and self-centered I had become over the past few years…  I felt terrible about what I’d done to those who I cared most about and sooo sorry that it took a DUI to get me sober and appreciate that I have responsibilities; first and foremost to myself and then to my loved-ones…  Thanks again for everything!

Female – 2019

TO: Alert Program Staff,   Wow…  was I ever a mess and had no idea that I was impacting so many others who cared about me.  My head was completely focused on my addictions to booze and weed and stuff.   … I really learned quite a bit there and I’m sorry for all the headaches I caused ’cause of my relapses and missing classes and stuff.  So cool that I finally got [myself] straightened out and realized that I have a lot to offer and that people care about me.  Thanks a ton!

Male – 2018

Dear AP Director,   … I feel really lucky that I found you guys,  …. these classes helped me understand what substance and alcohol abuse can do and how they affect so many other people.  I have made amends and now have my life back on track!  I know that it will probably still be a long road and will never be really completed but at least I have the tools to work with and your program made that possible!

Thanks so much!

XOXO

Female – 2018

Dear Alert Program, Thank you all for your dedication and commitment in your work…  Four months ago, I was so ashamed and upset with myself and my life choices.  After the completion of this program, I’ve been able to forgive myself and I’ve gained knowledge, self-esteem, and wisdom that is priceless!  A special “thank you” to the AP’s Director specifically for working with me and my constant changing schedule and allowing me to make-up some classes in order to finish the program on time!

Female – 2017

Dear Alert Staff:  Thank you sincerely for turning a negative experience into a truly eye-opening, positive, experience!  When your class sessions are approached with an open mind, they provide invaluable knowledge we [the clients] are able to take with and use, day-to-day!  Thanks again for the tools, words and kindness.

Male – 2017

Dear Alert Program Director, I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for the information I received in the past 3 months.  The last few weeks, the discussions were the most educational and interesting part of the whole program.  … My counselor was very professional, knowledgeable and has a tremendous personality to deal with the many personalities in the class.  He is quite an asset to your company and was very much respected by all the attendees.  As a former VP of a large, national retail company, I was responsible for thousands of employees and nearly 200 stores in my 30 year career, so I have some pretty good experience with people.  In closing… Rest assured, I certainly will not be drinking and driving, no more DUI’s for me.

Male – 2016

Alert Staff! Thank you sincerely for turning a negative situation into a truly eye opening, positive learning experience.  When your class sessions are approached with an open mind, they provide invaluable knowledge we are able to take with us and use day to day.  Thanks again for the tools, words and kindness!

Female – 2016

This Program has been helpful in so many ways… Our counselor has made the classes fun for us and has focused on us one by one which is important to make us feel like she cares about helping us.  I have learned so many helpful tips and techniques to help myself stay sober and happy with my life.  I believe she is an amazing instructor and thankful for all her help!

Male – 2015

I am writing this letter in gratitude for the professionalism, compassion and wisdom that has been imparted to me by my experience in attending the Alert Program in Palm Springs. My DUI was a harsh wake up call, however the Alert Program brought home to me an unquestioned greater understanding of the problems associated with drinking and driving. I can’t speak highly enough to the sincerity of the staff in communicating this serious content. I actually looked forward in an unanticipated manner to what I would learn from Bardo & Patty, who I am proud to now call friends as well as educators.  They are amazing!  Finally I can’t thank Jacque enough for working with me around a very challenging work travel schedule.  Her positive energy was a gift during this often distressing journey!  God Bless & Keep You All!

Female – 2014

I have completed my 16 week DUI class and I wanted to let you know how thankful I am that you directed me to the Alert Program in Palm Springs.  Getting a DUI has got to be the most humiliating experience I have ever had to go through.  The Director, Ms. Stewart, and her staff have so much compassion for every offender that walks through those doors.  They [The staff and counselors] made me feel at ease with the program.  Every class was engaging and informative.  Thanks to the Alert Program, I can honestly say I have a heightened sense of awareness of the dangers of drinking/drugging and driving.  I would certainly recommend the Alert Program to any DUI offender!!  Thank you.

Male –  2014  (Written to client’s legal counsel)

We are so happy to hear about your positive progress and participation with the Alert Program.  We have been very pleased about the feedback our clients have had with that program.  We wish you the best in your continued sobriety.

Sincerely,

Dolan Law Offices

I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for a First Class experience at your Alert Program. What started out as being a devastating and negative experience in being arrested for a DUI turned out to be a tremendous learning experience. Your counselors were very professional, knowledgeable, and empathetic. The videos that were shown were relevant and informational. The group sessions provided information on topics that allowed me to grow and become a better person. I feel as though the Alert Program helped me recognize the positive of my negative incident, and for that I would like to thank you.

Male – 2013

I was pleasantly surprised by how well everything was handled. From signing up, reviewing important class information, and understanding the rules and guidelines. I was very stressed over all of this and I felt that I was treated with dignity and respect. The counselors were very kind and helpful, encouraging us to be honest and examine our behaviors without insulting any of us. I would recommend this program to anyone with complete confidence.

Female – 2013

The course was stimulating, thought-provoking and encouraged honest self-evaluation and discussion between students and the instructor. We discussed many interesting, significant and useful topics including the stages of addiction; yet never did the instructors make us feel like criminals, alcoholics or drug addicts. I believe that others who find themselves with a DUI can benefit substantially from the ALERT Program. I entered the Program with an open mind, but now that I’ve completed the program, I believe I have learned essential life skills – skills that apply to my entire life, not solely my casual use of alcohol and recreational drugs.

Male – 2013

Thank you for making the worst situation of my life a positive and learning experience. I particularly enjoyed the Group sessions and interacting with the others. Your group leaders were simply amazing, every one of them.

Female – 2012

I have an amazing time with my group in my class …our counselor makes it so fun to be there for 2 hours. She is so caring and very respectful to all of us… I love the class so much, that I was even thinking to go to it even after I finish my 4 months! I appreciate this program so much because I have learned so much… Not to mention all the great friends I’ve made… Thank you for coming into my life and helping me to fully understand why not to drink and drive… May God bless you and keep on making it fun…

Male – 2012

I give my highest recommendation to the Alert Program of Palm Springs, California. The Alert Program is beneficial and educational, but most importantly to me, is truly committed to helping others deal with the consequences of their choices and actions, as well as their relationship to alcohol and other forms of addiction. …The program guides participants in finding more productive ways to cope with the struggles and obstacles we all confront in this world. The program pushed all of us in a new and positive direction and helped us see the potential we all have to succeed…

Male – 2011

I am very grateful to the Alert Program and especially to my counselor for helping me to firmly face my fears and my issues related not only to alcohol, but to stress, coping mechanisms, self-esteem, values, and responsibility for my life. I adamantly believe the program is effective, educational and constructive, and most importantly, able to advise students in ways to help not only refrain from repeating the same mistakes, but to also help us reach our own personal goals. It was a very rewarding experience. Thank you so much!

Male – 2011

As I have now finished my four month program I wanted to take this time to thank you and your staff for an incredibly positive experience stemming from a very negative experience due to driving under the influence of alcohol. I learned that this truly can happen to anyone although most of us think otherwise. Your programs are intelligent, relevant and effective for people of all economic, social and cultural backgrounds. I had a unique opportunity to meet, interact and learn from many people that I normally wouldn’t.

In particular, I give my deepest thank you and respect to my counselor. She is single-handedly the force that drove the positive response from everyone in our group. Everyone. There is no one that was in both groups in four months that cannot walk away from being influenced by her positivity. Her honest, direct, personal and kind approach is priceless. She knows how to make people feel safe and open up.

So, unfortunate situations can end up being fortunate after all! I am a much better person, now being intimately educated on alcoholism, and so are all of my co-students.

Male – 2011

I contacted The Alert Program and spoke with the Director. I explained my situation and from that first phone call then my intake interview and each week when I attend class I have had nothing but a most positive uplifting experience. From the start they have been clear and concise about what was required and have communicated all aspects of those requirements in a way that is both professional and understanding.

Their strict adherence to attending AA meetings on schedule forced me back to a program that had limited success for me in the past. However, the required AA Meeting attendance coupled with what I consider an excellent class curriculum taught by a team of dearly talented professional counselors has had the most powerful effect on my commitment to my continued sobriety through both my continuation of Alert Program Classes and especially AA.

Not only have I not missed a single class in 27 weeks, but perhaps for me most importantly, have continued to attend AA Meetings long after completing my required 18, now on average of 5 times a week. I have embraced AA unlike never before. I firmly believe this would not have been the case without the help of the Alert Program and its experienced and compassionate staff who have guided me throughout this time.

I say without reservation that I believe the Alert Program and its staff have saved my life and I wanted you to know that.

Male – 2010 (Letter to Riverside Co. Dept. of Drinking Driver Programs)

I wish you and your staff the best always and thank you for all of the guidance I received while I was in your program. I would like you to give a special “Thank you” to my counselor for being there for me.

Female – 2010

…I’d like to commend my counselor, she did a real good job with a rag-tag bunch like us, and when we’d settle-down enough for her to talk, she’d come forth with all kinds of good thoughts, insights, guiding ideas and professional-level caring for those that wanted to listen. Her experience and extensive education made her a valued teacher in my book … for which I am very grateful, and is a credit to your Alert Program. Although I at first regretted having deserved this necessity, I came to see it as a gift in the form of a welcome wake-up call. I therefore enjoyed every class as an opportunity to learn. Her able leadership, kind guiding hand and thorough knowledge of the subject matter were there to meet every students needs and has earned my unsolicited praise.

Male – 2010

Letter to Riverside Co. Dept. of Drinking Driver Programs

During the month of March 2008, I got a DUI on my way from Los Angeles to Palm Springs. Since I am from the state of Ohio, I was not able to stay and go through the Courts and begin my Alert Program until January, 2009. Since I’m a “Snow Bird” from Ohio, I’m only in California for the winter, therefore, it’s taken me two winters to complete the program. I just finished the program and the reason I am telling you all about this, is to give a lot of PRAISE to the Director of the Alert Program in Palm Springs. She was very helpful in working with me to schedule my classes and take care of my “leave of absence” when it was necessary for me to go back to Ohio.

Thanks her wonderful staff of Alert Program Counselors, My experience was a pleasant one, rather than one of dread. I am very thankful and indebted to her and all her counselors who showed their compassion and genuine concern for my well being.

Male – 2009

I wanted to write a letter to you and your staff acknowledging you and your counselors who were my guiding lights during my program stay with the Alert Program.

To say the least, I was not thrilled to be in this DUI program. As the weeks went by and I got to know and share with your staff and other fellow participants my life stories, it got a little bit easier to understand the progression of my addiction…

My counselor was very easy to talk with and share emotions and feelings with. She not only allowed me to be open about my life, but also was open about her life and where her addictions took her and where she is today. Through the weeks and months of this program and through the help and guidance of your staff, I am proud to say I am sober today because of their help. I want to thank the Alert Program for choosing to have such a caring and professional staff in Palm Springs.

Male – 2009

Just wanted you to know that your counselors are very dedicated people. There is just a lot of variety of people and they do well dealing with each one. I will say that I feared a lot from this incident and I appreciate and see things so much differently now. I wish you all the best.

Female – 2008

Dear Director and counselors, Just wanted to say thank you all for making such a difficult time, manageable with your kindness and helpfulness – and humor – I am very grateful for your assistance to accommodate my travel for work and I really appreciate it. Thanks!

Female – 2008

I just wanted to thank you for being so kind and helping me help myself. …You made the situation a little less painful.

Female – 2007

Thanks to all at the Alert Program for all your concern & truth. Your efforts make CA a safer place to live!

Male – 2007

Thank you for making this whole experience as painless as possible. This DUI incident really made me aware of what some of my issues are and how to go about dealing with them. You’re a life saver!

Female – 2005

Letter to Riverside Co. Dept. of Drinking Driver Programs

Just this week I completed The Alert Program drinking driver program in Palm Springs. Needless to say, like the others in the class, I did not enroll into this program on my own volition., On November 17. 1997 I drank in excess and drove under the influence of alcohol.

…I was embarrassed by my DUI conviction. To the programs’ credit, it is and the class attendees’ are fortunate to have JS as one of its instructors. She helped me realize that I was not alone and that as long as I had the right attitude, I would benefit from the program. She was right.

It has been a great experience attending Alert Program classes, it was very informative. Thank you very much for placing me in the Alert Program.

Male – 2004

Thanks again for your patience and understanding . Had a blast in class and I am that much wiser now because of it.

Male – 2004

One of the positive things that have come out of the whole DUI mess is your program! Your classes have been both informative and very interesting and have inspired me to take a good hard look at myself. Thanks for your interest and making it all fun and educational.

Male – 2003

Just a fast note to say… You certainly helped me appreciate the dynamics of my alcoholism. I left with more tools to help me stay sober. I appreciate you and your program.

Male – 2003

There’s nothing more valuable to me than the time I spent listening and talking in your classrooms – thank you so much.

Female – 2002

I would like to express my extreme gratitude for suggesting the Ranch to me – and listening to my story and being a good teacher and guide. The difference in my personality now and from last May when I first came to you is like night and day, You are a blessing. Thank you.

Female 2001

It’s not only apparent you care about what has happened to the people in your class, but what will happen to them once they leave. This caring comes across in all of your counselors and interacting with them is a very uplifting experiences. Thank you for everything.

Female – 1999

I felt compelled to write you this note not only to thank you for all of your assistance and care but also to inform you that without your presence / classes, I wouldn’t have gained any relevance or knowledge, You made the experience beneficial. Thanks ever so kindly for your imparted wisdom and within you all the best in your endeavors If there is anything I can ever do for you, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Female – 1999

Greetings from Maui – I’m doing much better because of you and your program. Thank you so much for all you have done – you’ve really helped me turn my life around!

Male – 1998

… My Counselor has been a real motivator and inspiration to us all. Don’t Drink and Drive!

Male – 1997

Thank you for assisting me in recognizing my problem with alcohol – I have learned the reality of this problem and been able to face the need to rehabilitate myself. That effort has begun with your tremendous and genuine efforts each Wednesday and for the last 16 weeks. I appreciate your knowledge and your method of sharing that knowledge. You create such an enjoyable environment in which to learn – keep up the wonderful cause – I am better today and will continue to get better each and every day going forward. With much appreciation.

Male 1997

You have been a wonderful instructor – thanks for being such a positive influence in my life. Even though we have only known each other for a short period of time, you really made a difference by talking and sharing with me and also being an example of what sobriety has to offer, you gave me more than you will ever know…

Female – 1995

I want to thank you and your counselors for doing a great job with the program – it was a learning experience I will never forget.

Male – 1994

Having attended my last class on New Year’s Eve, I must say I feel as though I’m starting 1993 off on the right foot thanks to you!!!

I feel as though my classes with you have given me an entirely different attitude about a number of things. For example, I began your class with a “why me? This is embarrassing….”. I completed your class thinking, “Thank God I was caught before I hurt someone!” I feel as though I owe you a great deal and will never be able to extend to you the appreciation you so rightfully deserve.

Female – 1993

Thank you for being an integral part of the needed changes in my life.

Male – 1993

… Thank you for the classes I attended. I really did learn a lot, especially how to cope with stress both good and bad. As much as I hated to get up Wednesday morning to attend those classes, it left me with something each week to think about as I went about my daily work and at-home routines. You are very intelligent and are performing one heck of a good service to everyone no matter if they think so or not. It was very interesting to hear some of the things that people did as they bared their innermost feelings and ideas. You are a credit to your career and I applaud you.

I just felt I had to let you know that I appreciate everything your drinking driver program did to help me and in a way hated to see the end come, even if I had to pay for it. It was a very expensive lesson but it will certainly make me think in the future. Thanks again.

Male – 1992

…I would like to extend my sincerest appreciation, I hate to admit it but I will miss attending your classes. I’ve grown to have a lot of respect for you and what you stand for. Thank you for (hopefully) saving lives and saving people from injury.

Female – 1992

Merry Christmas – Thank you so much. I’m still sober and going to college now. Hope you all have a Merry Christmas.

Female 1992

I can’t thank you enough for all you help and support. You’ve been a real ANGEL. You and all the counselors have made my experience in the Alert Program a much more pleasant experience vs. one of dread. Thanks again from the bottom of my heart.

Male – 1991

Thank you for your generous teaching and the wonderful gift of being able to do it with a bright outlook.

Male – 1991

You contribute to our world with your gifts of patience, Knowledge, and understanding. You seek the inner light in each of your students, and they are blessed. You foster the development of each one – understanding that intelligence cannot always be measured by ways of man. You teach one day at a time, Knowing that students have good days and bad, and with this act of love, You contribute to their spiritual growth. Thank you for your contribution to our world.

Female – 1990

Thank so much for your time and understanding – it means a lot to me.

Male – 1989