Spiritual Recovery Connection

Through experience, Dennis Costigan became familiar with recovery through fellowship recovery meetings, outpatient treatment, inpatient rehabilitation, and other drug and alcohol programs. His journey began with a back injury and prescribed opioid medications. After earnestly participating in the recovery process, Dennis recognized he had a spiritual deficiency that led to over-medicating, addiction, and confinement. In the recovery process for four years, he has found serenity and peace of mind in addition to rebuilding and strengthening relationships with family and friends.

With a mission to initiate the attraction of recovery through comfortable settings, to ease the process of establishing support networks, and to foster a strong understanding of how to acquire recovery through 12-step programs, Dennis was motivated to start two beginners’ meetings in to separate fellowships in the Stroudsburg twelve-step community. To further that mission, he also envisioned a recovery environment that focused on life rather than financial profit, that mirrored the spiritual connection of people in recovery. Dennis had come to the realization that the life he wanted so badly, a life that included a business to support his family and provide financial security, was the same life that caused the stress that led to his addiction. He had found a way to practice balance and wanted to share that recovery model.

To that end Dennis recruited like-minded individuals to help develop the framework for the SRC 501c3 to benefit the community. He dedicates his time and a portion of his business profits to SRC in an effort to increase recovery success.

Marc Gerson is a dedicated singer/songwriter, fitness advisor, and entrepreneur who brings passion, discipline, and purpose into every area of his life. With over four years of continuous recovery, his journey of personal growth and transformation has shaped the foundation of who he is today. Marc’s commitment to living clean has strengthened his character, sharpened his focus, and deepened his appreciation for life, health, and meaningful relationships. As a creative artist, he uses music as a powerful form of expression and connection, sharing authentic stories and emotions through his songwriting and performances. His work reflects resilience, hope, and the belief that personal evolution is always possible.

In his role as a fitness advisor, Marc helps others pursue healthier, stronger lifestyles through consistency, education, and accountability. He is deeply motivated by seeing others unlock their potential both physically and mentally. As an entrepreneur, Marc combines vision, work ethic, and integrity to build opportunities that support his long-term goals while positively impacting the people around him. Above all, he is profoundly grateful for his beautiful family who remain his greatest source of strength, motivation, and inspiration. Marc’s life is guided by gratitude and perseverance.

Beverly Braxton-Cannon is a social service professional who has counseled in various modalities for over 35 years. She has worked in vocational school settings, state, county, and local government, non-profit organizations, public health consortiums, and clinical substance use treatment facilities. Beverly has worn many hats throughout her professional career including employment counselor, placement coordinator, guidance counselor, training director, care manager, and life coach as well as various positions in the substance use field. Although not personally in recovery from addiction, her life has been affected by loved ones’ substance abuse.

To learn about and better understand addiction and recovery, Beverly sought education and experience in the field. She was especially interested in how addiction affected family members and loved ones, and how those relationships could help, or hinder, the person in recovery. Beverly has worked in both residential and outpatient settings in several roles including HIV/AIDS counselor, behavioral health technician, substance abuse counselor, and director of family programs. She has personally and professionally helped countless individuals in her years of experience. Beverly has volunteered with and currently serves on the boards of numerous organizations. In addition to the Spiritual Recovery Connection board, she also serves on the board of directors of PA Inclusive and is a member of Pocono Mountain United Way’s Community Investment Panel. Beverly looks forward to working with the Spiritual Recovery Connection to provide a supportive and transformative residential experience for individuals in recovery.

Dennis E. Castillo recently retired after a 50-year history working in the medical profession. He began as a volunteer at Queens General Hospital (NYC) followed by 91 Charlie in the United States Army (License Practical Nurse. Dennis then moved on to Physician Assistant to Doctor of Podiatric Medicine. For the last 12 years he has worked with people diagnosed with Substance Use Disorder, taking course work toward becoming a Certified Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC). Dennis is very excited to be a part of the Spiritual Recovery Connection. Continuing to help people with this physical, spiritual, and mental malady will not only help clients under his care but also help the community at large.