Accountability Series | Story 3: Dave Gudenau 

In our recent post, Why Accountability Programming Matters Now, our CEO, Amy King, explored the fears and misunderstandings that often surround accountability-based program models—and why they’re needed more than ever. She laid out a clear, ethical framework for building programs that actually help people grow rather than punish them. 

But Amy didn’t develop these beliefs in a boardroom; she learned them from people—real people—whose lives were transformed because someone paired structure with compassion at exactly the moment they needed it. Their experiences show that accountability isn’t about control; it’s about connection, stability, and the belief that change is possible. 

In this four-part series, we want to share some of those stories with you. They’re powerful reminders that this work isn’t simply about systems or models. It’s about human beings, each with a history, a struggle, and a future worth investing in. 

Accountability Series | Story 3: Dave Gudenau: Former Pallet Team Member

My experience with accountability programming was completely life-changing. After 15 years in active addiction, I spent years wondering how I would ever get out. I knew treatment existed, but the question that kept me awake at night was what came after the 30 days ended—no money, no housing, and no clear path forward. Accountability programming through drug court gave me a model for how to stay sober after treatment and helped me imagine a future beyond survival.

At first, I was worried. I had heard that accountability programs were designed to make people fail or to send them back to prison. But I learned that if you truly want a way out, the expectations aren’t impossible—they’re intentional. When you live in addiction, there’s no structure or responsibility. You make your own schedule, and chaos becomes normal. Moving from that world into one with real expectations is hard at first, but it’s also grounding.

The early stages were the most challenging, and there were times I wanted to quit. What made the difference was being surrounded by others who understood—people walking the same path and people further along who showed me what was possible. The program asked a lot of me, but it also offered real support, helping with things like rent, transportation, and court obligations. Over time, each stage became more manageable because I wasn’t doing it alone.

Accountability programming is a critical part of recovery and reintegration because it prepares you for real life. Waking up every day with responsibilities helps rebuild routine, confidence, and stability. It bridges the gap between treatment and long-term recovery by showing people how to live with structure, support, and purpose.

To anyone who has concerns about accountability programming, I would say this: nothing about it is forced. There is always a choice. Drug court is a privilege—an opportunity for people who are already facing serious consequences to choose a different path. Accountability isn’t about punishment; it’s about creating the conditions for growth and giving people the support they need to succeed.

Read parts 1 and 2 of this series here: Carolyn's story , Joe's story

Read the original blog from our CEO, Why Accountability Programming Matters Now