(Zachary Meseck Photo)

NORWICH – Chenango County Treatment Court officials celebrated the graduation of one of their participants earlier this week, stating that the organization wants individuals to know that they can have a future that doesn't involve addiction.

According to Norwich City Court Judge Michael Genute, this graduation ceremony was held after approximately a year of not hosting ceremonies.

"We're doing things a little differently than in recent history," said Genute. "We've added phases to the program, and we're trying to look at what is going to inspire more of our participants to make it through."

He said by hosting graduation ceremonies, having the graduators give a speech about the journey, and by inviting other participants to come watch the process, he hopes to see a positive response.