{"id":17744,"date":"2025-05-09T10:36:57","date_gmt":"2025-05-09T17:36:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/socialmodelrecovery.org\/staging\/8105\/?p=17744"},"modified":"2025-05-13T12:32:45","modified_gmt":"2025-05-13T19:32:45","slug":"meet-our-new-team-members-growing-together","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/socialmodelrecovery.org\/staging\/8105\/2025\/05\/meet-our-new-team-members-growing-together\/","title":{"rendered":"Meet Our New Team Members: Growing Together"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

We\u2019re excited to welcome our newest team members to Social Model Recovery Systems! Each of them brings unique experience, heart, and a shared passion for helping others. We\u2019re grateful to have them join our mission in supporting individuals on their journey to recovery.<\/em><\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Julie Casillas, LVN<\/strong>
Medication Support<\/strong> 
PCADD <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Julie Casillas<\/strong>, an LVN<\/em> with over 25 years of experience, graduated from Riverside Community College in 2001 with an Associate\u2019s Degree in Science <\/em>and earned her Vocational Nursing Certificate in 1999<\/em>. She has worked in various nursing settings, including hospitals, med-surge units, postpartum care, home health, and mental health in the Riverside area for nearly seven years. Julie has also worked at an H1N1 vaccination clinic, flu clinics, and a pre-employment clinic for Riverside County. Since 2020, she has been involved in community outreach projects and supporting her friends in recovery through local functions. She volunteered at Los Angeles County COVID clinics in 2023 and participated in the Carnival of Love in 2020, meeting and supporting unhoused individuals. Julie also served on the FQHC Board in Riverside for two years (1998\u20132000).  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

After relocating back to LA County to care for her mother, Julie decided to pursue a career where she could make a meaningful impact. She connected with the Social Model Recovery Systems <\/strong>(SMRS) <\/em>through a mutual friend and was drawn to the organization\u2019s holistic approach to recovery. Julie is passionate about advocating for others and enjoys staying active through sports, attending USC football games, Dodger and Angel games, and hiking. She values spending time with friends, whether over a meal or participating in social gatherings. Julie also loves traveling and exploring new places.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

After her mother\u2019s passing, Julie took time to reflect before returning to the workforce. She found an opening in Medication Support at SMRS and is excited to make a difference and be part of a team dedicated to helping others. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Michael Mangers, RADT<\/strong>
Primary Aide<\/strong> 
Bimini <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Mike Mangers<\/strong>, a Los Angeles native, discovered Social Model Recovery Systems through a friend who is a former employee. Having experienced the highs and lows of life, Mike considers himself fortunate to have outlived some of his bigger mistakes. Now, he\u2019s driven by a desire to give back to the community that has supported him throughout his journey. He believes that his life experiences uniquely equip him to help others and is excited to contribute to the recovery field in a meaningful way. 
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Mike says, “Being able to work in the recovery field is a dream job for me… I believe that I will be a good fit, and I am looking forward to being a team member here at Social Model Recovery Systems.” <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In addition to his passion for recovery, Mike has discovered some surprising joys in life. A fun fact about him is that up until just five months ago, the idea of eating raw fish was something he couldn\u2019t fathom. Now, he\u2019s a sushi enthusiast and an advocate, often exploring new sushi spots around Los Angeles. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Michael Vasquez, RADT<\/strong>
Primary Aide<\/strong> 
Omni Center <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Michael Vasquez<\/strong> recently discovered his passion for the field of addiction recovery, a path that feels deeply personal to him. Having grown up surrounded by the struggles of drug addiction, Michael has seen firsthand how it can devastate individuals and families alike. His own life experiences have shaped his understanding of the challenges faced by those in recovery, and he is now committed to helping others overcome their addictions and find a path to healing. Michael believes that by using his own journey as a foundation, he can connect with others in a meaningful way and offer support that is both compassionate and practical. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

With a strong desire to make a difference, Michael is dedicated to using his experiences to empower individuals on their recovery journey. He is eager to help people rebuild their lives, break free from addiction, and regain control of their futures. 
 When he’s not focused on his work in the recovery field, Michael enjoys working on muscle cars, restoring them to their original glory. He finds a sense of fulfillment in the hands-on work, and it provides him with a creative outlet. He is also an avid gamer, always eager to try out the latest in gaming tech. Michael enjoys exploring new technology and is always on the lookout for the next big thing in the gaming world.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

He looks forward to helping others on their own journeys and contributing to the field in a meaningful way. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Josue Arredondo<\/strong> 
Maintenance Engineer <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Josue Arredondo<\/strong>, a native of Los Angeles, has always held honesty and respect in high regard. From a young age, he developed a passion for performing service repairs and helping others, which naturally led him to a career in maintenance engineering. Growing up, Josue worked at his family-owned shop, where he gained valuable hands-on experience and honed the skills that have shaped his career path. His strong work ethic and dedication to quality service have now brought him to Social Model, where he is excited to contribute his expertise. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Josue is committed to ensuring that the physical premises of the Agency property are maintained to the highest standards, providing a comfortable and safe living environment for everyone. He takes great pride in his work, knowing that a well-maintained space plays a crucial role in the overall well-being of those in the recovery process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In his free time, Josue enjoys staying active through exercise, reading, and spending quality time with his family. These personal interests help him maintain a balanced and fulfilling life, which he believes is essential to his success both professionally and personally. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Robert Rosas<\/strong>
Housekeeping<\/strong> 
Bimini <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Robert Rosas<\/strong> is excited to join the team at Bimini as part of the housekeeping staff, bringing a strong sense of dedication and a desire to make a meaningful contribution to the organization. He was introduced to Social Model Recovery Systems<\/strong> (SMRS)<\/em> through a friend, who shared the positive impact the organization has had on individuals in recovery. After hearing about the inspiring work being done, Robert felt compelled to become a part of the team, believing in the power of community support and positive role models in the recovery process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Robert finds the work in this field deeply rewarding and is motivated by the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of those who are on their journey to healing. He is particularly drawn to the values and mission of SMRS, which he believes align with his own commitment to fostering growth, stability, and self-improvement. Robert hopes to serve as a positive influence for the residents and participants at Bimini<\/em>, offering a steady and encouraging presence as they work toward overcoming challenges and improving their futures. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

As he embarks on this new chapter, Robert looks forward to modeling positive behaviors and contributing to a supportive environment where recovery is not only possible but celebrated. He is eager to play an active role in supporting the team and residents every step of the way. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Martin Gonzales, CATC-II<\/strong>
Primary Counselor<\/strong> 
Bimini <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Martin Gonzalez<\/strong> brings with him a wealth of experience and dedication to his work in addiction counseling. With 8 years in the field, he specializes in evidence-based approaches to recovery, focusing on creating a safe and therapeutic environment where residents and participants can thrive. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

As a certified drug counselor, Martin has extensive experience working with justice-impacted individuals, empowering them to overcome the challenges of addiction through a client-centered, holistic approach. His passion for guiding individuals toward healthier, more fulfilling lives drives his work, helping residents and participants set and achieve meaningful goals. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Martin is drawn to the Social Model because of its alignment with his own values, particularly its mission and core beliefs. He finds inspiration in the organization’s commitment to supporting individuals on their recovery journeys. Outside of his professional life, Martin is an avid reader, always seeking knowledge to further enrich his practice and personal growth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Martin\u2019s dedication to helping others, paired with his deep knowledge and empathy, makes him an invaluable addition to our team. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Rodney McNeill, RADT<\/strong>
Primary Aide
River Community <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Rodney McNeill<\/strong>, a Covina native, earned an athletic scholarship to San Diego State University<\/em>, where he obtained a B.A. in Public Administration<\/em> and played Tight End for the Aztecs from 1997 to 2002. He is currently studying at Mt. SAC to earn his AOD<\/strong> counseling certificate in March 2025. After a successful career in telecom and financial technology sales, Rodney sought help for his addiction with support from his family. He began his recovery journey in Covina, CA, where he built a strong network of friends, sponsors, and fellow AA members. Rodney is dedicated to helping others who face similar struggles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While working one of his two jobs, Rodney met an employee who worked at SMRS<\/em>, who spoke to him about the organization. Rodney applied for a position and was hired at the<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Refresh Spot on Skid Row<\/em>, where he worked for six months. He will now be transferring to one of the organization’s residential facilities, River Community<\/em>. His motivation for recovery is his desire to help others escape the same hole he was once in, believing that showing people the way out is the best way to help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rodney says,<\/strong> “I am grateful to be alive, sober, and a part of the SMRS team.” <\/em>He is eager to set an example for his community and hopes to bring light into others’ lives, showing them the possibility of recovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In his free time, Rodney enjoys spending time with his family and watching sunsets and bonfires at the beach. He aspires to leave a legacy for his child and grandchild.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Welcome to the team, Julie, Mike, Michael V., Josue, Robert, Martin, and Rodney! We\u2019re glad you\u2019re here and look forward to the positive impact you\u2019ll make. <\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s continue making a difference\u2014together.<\/em><\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

We\u2019re excited to welcome our newest team members to Social Model Recovery Systems! Each of them brings unique experience, heart, and a shared passion for helping others. We\u2019re grateful to 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