Twin Brothers Discuss Recovery Journey on 'Today Show'

The incoming CEO of Rochester's Open Door Mission and his twin brother share their inspiring story of overcoming addiction.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 8:03pm

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A bold, colorful silkscreen print featuring a repeated image of a coffee mug in vibrant neon hues, conceptually representing the transformative journeys of the Williams brothers and the recovery programs they now lead.The inspiring story of the Williams brothers, who overcame addiction and now lead the very organizations that helped them, is a testament to the power of faith-based recovery programs.Rochester Today

The 'Today Show' featured a story about twin brothers Robert and Richard Williams, who both struggled with addiction in their early years. One brother, Robert, is the incoming CEO of Rochester's Open Door Mission, while the other, Richard, leads Pivot Ministries in Connecticut - the very organizations that helped them escape addiction. The brothers spoke about the meaning of Easter and how their faith and the support of these organizations gave them a 'second chance' at life.

Why it matters

The Williams brothers' story highlights the power of faith-based recovery programs in helping individuals overcome substance abuse issues. As the new leader of Open Door Mission, Robert Williams' personal experience will likely inform his approach to supporting others on their own journeys to sobriety and redemption.

The details

Robert and Richard Williams both sought help for their addictions, with Robert going to Open Door Mission in Rochester and Richard attending Pivot Ministries in Connecticut. Now, the twin brothers lead the very organizations that helped them escape addiction, with Robert set to take over as CEO of Open Door Mission. During their interview on the 'Today Show', the brothers spoke about how their Christian faith and the mission of these recovery programs gave them a 'second chance' at life.

  • On Good Friday, the 'Today Show' featured the Williams brothers' story.
  • Open Door Mission announced on Monday that Robert Williams will become the new CEO.

The players

Robert Williams

The incoming CEO of Rochester's Open Door Mission, who previously struggled with addiction and is now leading the organization that helped him recover.

Richard Williams

Robert's twin brother, who also battled addiction and now leads Pivot Ministries in Connecticut, the organization that supported his recovery.

Open Door Mission

A faith-based recovery program in Rochester, New York that helped Robert Williams overcome his addiction.

Pivot Ministries

A faith-based recovery program in Connecticut that helped Richard Williams overcome his addiction.

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What they’re saying

“The purpose of the resurrection was to defeat death. You know, Christ died and rose again so that we may have new life and have it more abundantly and our sins may be forgiven, that we would have a second chance, that we could be reconciled with God again.”

— Robert Williams, Incoming CEO, Open Door Mission

What’s next

Open Door Mission will hold a special event to welcome Robert Williams as the new CEO in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

The inspiring story of the Williams brothers demonstrates the transformative power of faith-based recovery programs in helping individuals overcome addiction and find new purpose in life. As the incoming leader of Open Door Mission, Robert Williams' personal experience will guide his efforts to support others on their own journeys to sobriety and redemption.