Friends of Recovery NE Ohio was founded out of a deep conviction that individuals struggling with addiction need more than treatment — they need Christ-centered community, safety, and stability to build a new life. The vision began in 2015 when a small group felt called to create a ministry serving those impacted by addiction. During this time, Dennis, then a licensed counselor working with teens and young adults in the court system, recognized a critical gap in recovery care: while treatment was essential, spiritual transformation was often missing. Following prayer and discernment, Dennis stepped forward to help lead the vision and, in 2016, resigned from his counseling role to pursue this calling full time. Alongside his wife Sue, he was commissioned as a missionary with World Renewal International and began building partnerships across Northeast Ohio as God provided direction and support.

In 2017, FORNEO opened its first men’s recovery home, Tikvah, through a partnership with Willoughby Bible Church. That same year, the JourneyMen men’s support group began meeting weekly, offering community, meals, and encouragement to dozens of men in recovery.

God continued to expand the ministry. In 2020, FORNEO opened Arukah, its first women’s recovery home, followed by Shalom in 2023 — a home specifically designed for women with children. Each home was launched through faith-filled perseverance, generous community support, and God’s provision in moments of great need.

In 2023, FORNEO also launched the Warehouse of H.O.P.E., a thrift store created to support the ministry financially while serving the local community. What began as a practical solution quickly became another place where people encounter hope.

In 2024, FORNEO purchased Hesed, a second men’s recovery home, further expanding its ability to serve individuals seeking a Christ-centered next step in recovery.

What began as a small, faith-driven vision has grown into a network of recovery homes, support groups, and community partnerships. Today, FORNEO continues to walk in trust that God will provide exactly what is needed at the right time — fostering security, stability, and belonging for men and women in recovery, and working toward lives transformed, families restored, and communities strengthened through the hope of Christ.

Since 2016, Friends of Recovery NE Ohio has been led by Christ, shepherded by its Founders and Board of Directors and served by a faithful staff of volunteers.