My name is James and I’ve spent more than eighteen years of my life struggling with substance use disorder. I moved to Maryland in 2015 for a program called Helping up Mission. I spent more than a year in the program and never imagined I would transform into the man I am today. I am a person in long-term recovery and have been gifted the ability to share my personal experiences and my road to recovery with many.

Once I graduated from the Helping Up Mission program, I began to find my passion in helping others and was able to use my gift as a peer recovery specialist. I worked in the emergency room at one of the busiest ER’s in the state of Maryland. I witnessed miracles, but also lost many friends over the years.

During my time at the hospital I decided to return to college after a long hiatus. I enrolled at the Community College of Baltimore County in 2018. I tested poorly on the placement exam and had to take fundamental courses to catch up with my peers. Once these basic courses were completed, I decided to pursue a general business degree. While I was at Helping up Mission, I had the privilege to work as an intern in the Philanthropy office. I loved everything about it. Ultimately, I would like to replicate this experience in a career that utilizes my education, interpersonal and relationship building skills to raise money to help others.

In 2018, I moved to Harford County and met one of the most influential persons in my life, Donna Sheldon. Mrs. Sheldon is the president of the Harvest House. The Harvest House is a three-quarter sober living home for men who have completed substance abuse treatment and are on the road to recovery. I was drawn to Donna and Harvest House, and ultimately became the house manager.

During the two years that I have been the Harvest House manager, I have successfully utilized my personal experiences to mentor the residents – inspiring hope and encouraging change. There is no greater feeling than being able to walk side-by-side with someone and witness their transformation. I also completed a 27-week curriculum with True Life Discipleship Counseling and am active in the community.

Today I work for a non-profit called the Mental Health Association of Maryland as a program coordinator. I remain the house manager for the Harvest House and continue to pursue my college degree. Recovery happens!”