By age 22, Melissa had been arrested 5 times, caught in a vicious cycle of heroin use and crime. Now, she’s several years sober and uplifting other Americans all around the country to find their paths to lasting recovery.

For more stories, ideas, and advice from changemakers tackling our biggest challenges, subscribe to Stand Together ►    / standtogethercc  

—

America isn’t just dealing with a substance use problem, we’re facing an epidemic rooted in social isolation. That’s why The Phoenix model leverages the transformational power of connection and human resilience to build a sober movement.

Melissa De Stefano's journey embodies The Phoenix's transformative approach. Facing abuse and emotional neglect as a child, Melissa began drinking at age 12, and within a few years, she was using heroin. Her path to recovery eventually led her to The Phoenix. Today, Melissa serves as a virtual fitness instructor with The Phoenix, using her experience to inspire and guide others on their recovery journeys.

The Phoenix operates on the principle of bottom-up empowerment, recognizing that those closest to the issue of addiction are best equipped to solve it. This approach harnesses the power of lived experience, allowing individuals like Melissa to become leaders and mentors in the recovery community. By empowering those who have walked the path of addiction and recovery, The Phoenix creates a self-sustaining cycle of support, understanding, and growth that resonates deeply with those seeking to overcome substance use disorders.

—

Watch more videos about the people working to heal American families and children in our Strong & Safe Communities playlist ►    • Strong & Safe Communities  


And visit Stand Together’s website to learn more ► https://standtogether.org/