Stories of Recovery, Impact, and Hope

In the News: Community Grant Fuels Recovery Impact

Steps to Recovery Homes Selected for Community Development Block Grant

We are honored to share that Steps to Recovery Homes was selected by the Sedona City Council as the recipient of its Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) allocation. This recognition not only highlights our commitment to addiction recovery and transitional housing — it affirms the transformative impact we are making in the Verde Valley and beyond.

CDBG funding, provided through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and administered by the Arizona Department of Housing, is designed to support community-focused initiatives that serve individuals with low to moderate income. Our program was selected out of multiple proposals, including city-sponsored projects and critical home repair programs.

Empowering Recovery Through Workforce Development

Our CEO, Damien Browning, shared with the council how this funding would support our transitional housing program, which provides a safe and structured environment for individuals recovering from addiction. At the heart of our mission is equipping people with life skills and job readiness — tools they need to reintegrate into the workforce and society successfully.

“Our goal is to create and empower reliable, sober, career-driven, and purpose-driven workers,” Browning stated. “Supportive housing and workforce development go hand in hand in long-term recovery.”

Since opening our first transitional home, we’ve helped over 400 individuals, with more than half maintaining sobriety for over two years. The grant is planned to be used for the purchase of a new transitional property, helping us keep rent affordable and continue offering high-quality, community-integrated support.

Healing Through Creativity

During the COVID-19 pandemic, when our Miracles Happen ReSale Store had to pause in-person shopping, clients turned to therapeutic projects. They began repurposing donated furniture, like turning an old gun cabinet into a standing closet. This initiative not only supported the resale store but gave clients new hobbies, purpose, and creative expression.

Community Support & Unanimous Backing

Steps to Recovery Homes received broad community support. Faith leaders, nonprofits, and local residents all echoed a powerful message: Addiction recovery is not just a treatment issue — it’s a community solution.

“It’s a worthy investment both practically and spiritually,” shared Sedona resident Frank Ferrante, who has been in recovery for 17 years.

From spiritual leaders to city officials, voices from across Sedona emphasized that the need for programs like ours is both urgent and ongoing.