Today we’d like to introduce you to Ian Jessogne.
Hi Ian, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I am 43 years old. I grew up in New Orleans, LA. I was addicted to drugs and alcohol for most of my life. I have been sober for almost 7 years now. I’ve been to jail, homeless, trap houses, and every other dark and evil place that anyone can imagine where that life will take you. My father was an alcoholic and died at the age of 37 when I was only 12 years old. I survived Hurricane Katrina. I didn’t realize the impact that the environment and everything I was exposed to at such a young age would have this kind of impact on my life. However, by the time I reached 36, after overdosing and nearly dying I realized I had had enough and wanted something different. I always believed that I could do great things with my life and knew that I was capable. I went to treatment for 37 days in Mississippi and didn’t want to go back to where I was previously. I came to a sober living home in Knoxville, TN. I lived in the housing for over 2 years and while I lived there I realized that there are 1000s of people that need help just like i did. I started a Non Profit called Sober Living Provisions and have committed the rest of my life to continue to help break these generational cycles and curses. I believe that many people want to find a new way to live and I’m proud to say that we are here now to help them do so.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Absolutely has not been a smooth road. One of the biggest struggles is helping someone and watching them make tremendous progress, then for whatever reason some decide to go back out and use again. We have also had financial struggles along the way. I learned quickly after starting out Non Profit that I didn’t know anything about how to operate a Nonprofit. It’s definitely on the job training and learn as you go for us. I don’t have any special skills except for my experience and God that guides me every day.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I help men and women navigate getting into recovery from long term substance abuse. I’m known mostly for operating several men’s Sober Living homes. What sets us apart from others is that we’ve invested in a commercial space where we help people from the public find placement into , treatment, sober living homes, etc. We don’t just try to get people into our places. We take the time out to actually get them where they need to go. We also host several recovery meetings each week.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
I take calls directly. (865)437-4538. We have a website soberdonations.com where people can donate directly and find other information. We also have a google listing.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Soberdonations.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SoberLivingProvisions
