(Find Sobriety): Maya, thank you so much for joining us and sharing your story. It’s truly inspiring. Can you start by telling us a bit about your journey and what led you to seek help?

Maya: Absolutely. I grew up in South Philadelphia. My family was poor and we always struggled. I got into drugs in high school and managed to keep it together while still using drugs until my mid-20s. But over time, my addiction to crack cocaine took over everything. I lost my apartment, my job, and eventually, my sense of self. I was homeless for six months, surviving day by day, and I felt like I had no way out. One night, I walked into an AA meeting hall to get warm and grab a cup of coffee. That’s when I saw a flyer for “Find Sobriety” on a bulletin board. That little piece of paper changed my life.

(Find Sobriety): That’s incredible. What drew you to the flyer, and what was your first step after seeing it?

Maya: Honestly, it felt like a sign. I’d been thinking about getting help but didn’t know where to start. The flyer said, “Find the help you deserve,” and something about that hit me. I went to the library the next day, found the website, and started exploring my options. It was so easy to use, even for someone like me, who didn’t have much experience with technology.

(Find Sobriety): What was your experience like with the “Find Sobriety” website?

Maya: It was amazing. I filled out a quick form about my situation, and within hours, I had a list of treatment centers that specialized in helping people with my background. What really stood out was how personalized it all felt. They connected me with a center that not only offered detox and rehab but also had housing support for people who were homeless, like me.

(Find Sobriety): That’s fantastic. How was your experience at the treatment center?

Maya: It wasn’t easy, but it was exactly what I needed. The first few weeks were tough—detoxing and facing my reality—but the staff and other residents were so supportive. I learned to open up, to trust people again, and to believe that I was worth saving. The program also helped me transition into temporary housing after I finished, which gave me the stability I needed to stay clean.

(Find Sobriety): What kept you motivated to stick with recovery, even after those early challenges?

Maya: A big part of it was the support system I built. The treatment center connected me with a mentor, and I also started going to AA meetings regularly. But honestly, the moment that really clicked for me was realizing I wanted to help others. That gave me purpose. I thought, “If I can get through this, maybe I can help someone else do the same.”

(Find Sobriety): And now, you’re a certified recovery coach in California. That’s an incredible achievement! Can you tell us about that journey?

Maya: Thank you! After staying sober for a couple of years, I decided to pursue training to become a recovery coach. It wasn’t easy—there were moments when I doubted myself—but I knew I wanted to give back. I moved to California to start fresh and completed my certification. Now I work with people who are in the same place I was, and it’s the most fulfilling thing I’ve ever done. Every day, I get to help others believe in themselves, just like someone once believed in me.

(Find Sobriety): What role did “Find Sobriety” play in helping you reach where you are today?

Maya: “Find Sobriety” was my lifeline. Without that flyer and the resources I found on the website, I don’t know where I’d be today. They made it so much easier to take that first step, and they connected me with the exact support I needed. I owe so much of my recovery—and my new career—to them.

(Find Sobriety): That’s so powerful to hear. What advice would you give to someone who feels like they’re at rock bottom and doesn’t know where to start?

Maya: My advice is to start where you are. You don’t have to have all the answers, and you don’t have to be ready for the whole journey—just take the first step. Whether it’s going to a meeting, talking to someone, or visiting “Find Sobriety,” do something small. That small step can lead to big changes. And remember, you’re not alone. There’s always hope.

(Find Sobriety): Thank you so much, Maya. Your story is a testament to resilience and the power of second chances. Is there anything else you’d like to share?

Maya: Just a thank you to “Find Sobriety” for believing in people like me. And to anyone reading this who’s struggling: you are worth it. You can change your life. If I can do it, so can you.

(Find Sobriety): Thank you, Maya. Your journey is going to inspire so many people. Congratulations on your sobriety and all the lives you’re helping change.