Day One Society Board Feature: Dr. Stan Fike

Dr. Stan Fike, Vice President

Behind every strong organization are people who have dedicated their careers to care,

leadership, and community well-being. For Day One Society, that includes Board members

whose long-standing experience continues to shape the organization’s work. One of those

voices is Dr. Stan Fike, Vice President of the Board of Directors at Day One Society.

Dr. Fike’s connection to Day One Society spans more than three decades. As a family

physician, he spent 32 years working as an addiction physician at the Phoenix Centre detox

facility, supporting individuals taking their first steps toward sobriety and recovery.

“I was always impressed with the need for detox and educational services, and Day One Society provided excellent resources and care,” shares Dr. Fike, Vice President, Day One Society. “I wanted to continue to lend my experience to the Board and support the Society’s mandate. The staff and management have always been first class.”

After retiring from clinical practice, Dr. Fike joined the Board to continue contributing to the

organization from a governance perspective. His frontline experience provides valuable

insight into decision-making, policy, and long-term planning.

Over the years, he has seen substance use patterns evolve, reinforcing the importance of

adapting detox and recovery services to meet changing needs. He emphasizes that

addiction care must remain evidence-informed, compassionate, and responsive.

At the core of Dr. Fike’s perspective is the belief that addiction should be treated as a

health issue, not a personal failing.

“Drug addiction is not a character flaw,” he says. “It is a disease, and it should be viewed and addressed as such. Society must be more respectful, empathetic, and committed to supporting recovery.”

Looking ahead, Dr. Fike hopes increased awareness of the toxic drug crisis will lead to

greater investment in recovery services, outreach, and public health education. He

believes Day One Society will continue to play a leadership role in advancing addiction

care across the region.

Day One Society is grateful for Dr. Stan Fike’s decades of dedication, clinical expertise,

and steady leadership. His continued involvement reflects a deep commitment to

compassionate care and to ensuring that people seeking recovery are met with dignity and

support.