Breaking the cycle of addiction is no easy feat, even with the best support systems in place. Experts tell us it's a life-changing event that has to come with dedication, desire and a commitment to see it through. CBS 11 News takes a look at one man's story of success.

CBS 11 News sat down with an Anchorage man who spent 50 years of his life addicted to alcohol and drugs. Today he is clean and sober--a fact he credits to the Salvation Army's Clithroe Program.

While these programs are offered free of charge, Charles Burt says he is paying his debt off in a unique way. He calls it, in fact, his dream: a chance to give back to a community that gave him his life back.

"That dream is to get four or five people together and go to schools, sixth grade on up to high school, and tell them and show them it doesn't pay; you end up with nothing," said Burt.

Burt started drinking when he was 11-years-old. The addiction grew to include drugs, almost any kind he could get his hands on. Today he is working closely with Salvation Army employees. While he is working on his own recovery and healthy new life, he says it's time to focus on keeping kids drug-free.

"I like them to be aware of what can happen, aware of knowing that a drug isn't going to get rid of all of your worries. That's what I thought. That if I had a bad hair day, I would go drink something or use something to change how I felt that day. But it doesn't work that way. Next time you have to do it a little more, a little more, a little more," said Burt.

Burt's dream has come true. With the support of the Salvation Army, he is now sharing his story with those going through the recovery process. They soon hope to get Burt and other peer leaders to speak to school age groups. He was also selected to go to Juneau and speak to our legislators about the need for more funding for drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs. It's an experience, he tells CBS 11 News, he is very proud of and one

he hopes will make a difference.

To contact Laura, call 907-273-3186.