Each new face brings a story of hope, purpose, and heart to Social Model Recovery Systems. We’re proud to welcome these incredible individuals who have chosen to turn their personal journeys into pathways of healing for others.
Brooklynn Garcia, RADT
Primary Aide, River Community
Brooklynn is currently a college student as well as a new hire with the Social Model Recovery Systems agency. Having many family members who struggled with addiction and mental health issues, she sought out a career where she can help others take a step in the right direction. SMRS accepted a few of her family members, helping them recover through their addictions and having a great impact on not only the family members but Brooklynn herself. Inspiring her to acquire the proper qualifications, setting her mind to become a part of SMRS. She hopes to have a positive impact and is excited to start at River Community.
Willie Saffore
Housing Coordinator, Community-Based Housing (CBH)
Willie worked in the motion picture industry for 28 years during which he had roles in which he was printing motion pictures and developing and cleaning film. Willie is in recovery himself and has had 31 years in recovery. His friend Bobby told him about SMRS which seemed to resonate with his value of giving back to others what was so freely giving given to him. Willie’s personal hobbies include working on his classic cars and playing and/or DJing old school music and spending time with his grandkids.
Alyssa Wilson, LVN
Medication Support Counselor, River Community
Alyssa Wilson is a Medication Support Counselor at River Community Azusa. She is currently a Licensed Vocational Nurse who is continuing her nursing education and a mom of one. She believes mental health wellness and awareness is important for those who battle with addiction, self-image, and other intrapersonal struggles. Alyssa chose Social Model Recovery Systems because she has always wanted to be part of a profession that directly impacts the lives of those around her. She grew up with close friends and family who dealt with addiction and mental health crisis and eventually found herself struggling with her own. After receiving therapy and working through her trauma, she was inspired to pursue a career in which she has a role in giving back to her community.
She finds meaning in supporting others through their most vulnerable stages of life and giving guidance in the way that she received it. She believes having a community is necessary to persevering through the trials and tribulations that surround life. Empathy and compassion are valuable skills to carry, and through sharing hers at Social Model Recovery Systems, she hopes to positively influence those who seek guidance.
Jose Guillermo (Guillermo) Velasco
Primary Aide, Omni Center (OBB Program)
Guillermo is currently pursuing a Substance Use Counselor Degree from Mt. San Antonio College and has a history of working with Transitional-Aged Youth at Anti-Recidivism Coalition. Guillermo wants to help people help themselves with the utmost empathy and dignity. During his free time, Guillermo enjoys carving leather, going to the gym, and engaging in community service.
Regina Love, RADT
Primary Aide, River Community
Regina Love is a proud mother of seven accomplished adult children and a lifelong advocate for personal growth, healing, and empowerment. With a deep passion for inspiring and motivating others, she has dedicated her life to helping people realize their potential and embrace their own paths toward wellness and success.
Currently continuing her education at Mt. San Antonio College, Regina is pursuing studies in Addiction Counseling and Family Counseling to further her mission of supporting individuals and families through compassion, understanding, and guidance.
Guided by her belief that everyone has the ability to thrive when surrounded by love and support, Regina brings warmth, empathy, and purpose to every interaction—living proof that healing and transformation begin with heart.
Jason Ramos ,ACSW
Clinical Coordinator, Mid-Valley Outpatient
A Lifelong Learner with family rooted in East LA, Jason came to understand the systemic oppression that drives inequality and births cyclical and multi-generational patterns of substance use, poverty and injustice within communities.
Jason began his education in behavioral health in 2010 and completed his Master of Social Work degree in 2023. Starting out as a Drug Testing Coordinator he has worked for both mental health and SUD treatment programs throughout Los Angeles and Orange County.
Jason is passionate about sharing what he has learned with others through individual and group therapy and felt called to SMRS after learning about their dedication and philosophy of supporting positive change in the communities he calls home.
To our new staff members, welcome to the team! Together, we’re not just changing lives, we’re building a stronger, more compassionate community.
