Anna Lee

Storyteller

Anna Lee is the Director of Innovation at Social Model Recovery Systems, Inc. Dr. Lee graduated from the University of Southern California with a Master of Social Work in 2015 and a Doctor of Social Work in 2020. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has worked in the recovery field since 2011. She aims to make a difference in the lives of individuals and families struggling with Substance Use Disorders (SUD) by utilizing technology to reduce the stigma of treatment, developing community partnerships, and collaborating with experts both inside and outside of SUD treatment. 

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Eugene Milton

Storyteller

Eugene Milton was born in L.A. and raised in Hollywood. After being arrested, Eugene spent his time in prison focused on getting sober and graduated with two college degrees, an Associate of Science in Business and an Associate of Arts in American Studies. He also learned four different trades and received 11 certificates from various self-help and recovery groups. Eugene is now continuing to focus on his recovery and spending time with his family.

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Sabrina

Storyteller

Sabrina Chavez* was born and raised in California and struggled with substance misuse and her mental health as a teenager. After multiple attempts at recovery, Sabrina was ready to begin her recovery journey at 23 and has been sober ever since. Sabrina now works at a community nonprofit and enjoys spending time with her family and children.

*Due to the sensitive nature of her interview, Sabrina has elected to remain anonymous.

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Donny Irmen

Storyteller

Donny Irmen was born in Palmdale, California, and was homeless at the Lafayette Skatepark in Macarthur Park in his teens. After seeking out recovery services at the Dream Center — and meeting his wife — Donny is now a Director at the Dream Center’s Carey Kitchen & Food Bank. He is a recovery graduate of the Dream Center program and has worked for the center for seven years, serving in several roles. Donny is committed to serving the community through housing, outreach, and resource programs at the Dream Center.

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Kaitlyn Warren

Storyteller

Kaitlyn Warren was born in Los Angeles and loved exploring Mid-City and Pasadena, where she lived during her childhood. After being introduced to Percocets and laced fentanyl pills, Kaitlyn struggled with substance use until she was introduced to the outpatient program at the Koreatown Youth and Community Center. Now celebrating her recovery journey and sobriety, Kaitlyn is pursuing her cosmetology license and looking for entries into the fashion industry.

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Robin

Storyteller

Robin* is originally from Bedfordshire, England, and moved to L.A. in 2011 to be with his wife. When Robin first moved to L.A., a coworker introduced him to painkillers. After attending Koreatown Youth and Community Center’s Recovery Service outpatient program, Robin is now a year sober. Robin works in hospitality and loves spending time with his wife.

*Due to the sensitive nature of his interview, Robin has elected to remain anonymous.

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