For the first time in nearly two decades, Crossroads Inc. will have a new Executive Director. After 18 years at the helm of Arizona’s preeminent drug and alcohol rehabilitation organization, Crossroads Executive Director Lee Pioske has announced his retirement. At the same time, Chief Compliance Officer Chris Riley, has been selected to succeed his mentor of 16 years, the Crossroads Board of Directors announced today.

“Lee has depended on Chris in helping direct operations and setting strategy for continued growth in fulfilling our critical mission for the people of Arizona. Chris’s promotion to Executive Director ensures a smooth and seamless transition,” said Adam Miller, Chairman of the Crossroads board. “We accomplished so much during Lee’s tenure, and we are confident we can broaden our reach and preserve our effectiveness with Chris continuing Lee’s work, staying true to the Crossroads mission of returning people battling addiction to productive living.”

Under Pioske, Crossroads expanded its capacity acquiring multiple buildings to meet the rapidly growing need for addiction resources. Today, Crossroads offers essential services to 5,000 men and women annually across 9 Valley campuses that provide housing, healthy meals and counseling, fellowship, and support as addicts work on recovery and re-entry with a real opportunity for success.

Pioske began his association with Crossroads in 1998, answering phones at the front desk, and working his way through the ranks. Since 2005, he’s been Executive Director, and describes his 18-year tenure as a privilege and a joy.

“I have been driven by a desire to help others,” said Pioske, in describing his time and explaining how he’ll pass on that legacy to the next generation. “I want to make sure that even after I’m gone, Crossroads will be the place where people can get well.”

Both Pioske and the Crossroads board believe Riley is the individual best suited to continue and develop the Crossroads heritage. In his new role, Riley will lead the Crossroads team in providing state-of-the-art drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs and treatment services and put into place strategies to ensure the ongoing success of Crossroads services.

Riley has been with Crossroads for 16 years, with a demonstrated history of non-profit organizational management. He is a strong professional with a focus in family practice nursing from the U.S. Army Medical Corps, where he served as a combat medic from 1993 to 1997. He is also a certified Peer Support Specialist and will bring his expertise and years of caring for patients to the forefront.

“What we do is difficult but rewarding,” said Riley. “A lot of men and women are suffering from alcoholism and drug addiction. But we are here and ready to help anybody who needs us. I am proud and humbled to serve the people of Crossroads in this new way.”

Along with implementing programs to serve ever-changing needs, Crossroads will proceed to build its community around its clients and staff, serve as a valuable resource, and offer affordable rehabilitation and detox services­—a 65-year commitment with the individual in mind.

“By the time you leave Crossroads, you should have a job, a place to live, mended relationships, and a program you can continue on your own,” said Pioske. “This is our mission and our goal at Crossroads, and I am confident Chris will deliver with heart and compassion.”