Meet the Gang

 About Carla

Carla is the Founder and Executive Director of New Surroundings Recovery, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping women rebuild their lives through safe, supportive recovery housing and community-based services. Inspired by personal experiences with loss, grief, and the impact addiction has on families, Carla has devoted herself to creating opportunities for women to find stability, hope, and a path forward.

Carla's commitment to recovery work was born not from professional training alone, but from personal experience with loss, grief, and the devastating impact addiction can have on individuals and families. After losing loved ones to addiction, she developed a deep understanding of the importance of support, compassion, accountability, and second chances.

Carla believes that recovery extends beyond the individual and that restoring family relationships is one of the most powerful tools for lasting change. Her work focuses not only on helping women achieve sobriety and independence, but also on rebuilding connections between mothers, children, families, and communities.

Carla is known for her hands-on leadership style, unwavering dedication, and willingness to meet people where they are. Whether she is helping a resident navigate recovery, advocating for community resources, writing grant applications, coordinating transportation, or simply offering encouragement during a difficult day, her goal remains the same: to help people discover that their past does not define their future.

About Mike

Mike is the Co Founder of New Surroundings Recovery and Since beginning his recovery journey in 2020, Mike has been passionate about helping others find hope, stability, and a renewed sense of purpose. As Co-Founder of New Surroundings Recovery, Mike is committed to creating a supportive and structured environment where women can build a strong foundation for lasting recovery and personal growth.

A resident of Sykesville and proud father, Mike understands firsthand the challenges and rewards of recovery. His lived experience allows him to connect with residents through compassion, accountability, and encouragement, helping them navigate obstacles while celebrating each success along the way.

When he is not supporting the recovery community, Mike enjoys spending time with family and friends and cheering on the Baltimore Ravens. Through his work at New Surroundings Recovery, Mike strives to show others that recovery is about more than overcoming addiction—it's about rebuilding lives, restoring relationships, and creating a future filled with hope and opportunity.

"Recovery gave me a second chance, and I'm dedicated to helping others find theirs."

About Holly 

Holly serves as the Outreach Coordinator for New Surroundings Recovery, where she plays a vital role in connecting women with the resources, services, and community support needed to achieve lasting recovery and independence. Through her work, Holly helps build relationships with community partners, recovery organizations, treatment providers, employers, and local agencies to ensure residents have access to the tools and opportunities necessary for success.

Holly is passionate about helping women overcome barriers, discover their strengths, and create positive change in their lives. She understands that recovery is about more than sobriety—it is about building confidence, restoring hope, developing life skills, and creating a stable foundation for the future. Her compassionate approach and dedication to service help residents feel supported, encouraged, and empowered throughout their recovery journey.

As an advocate for the women served by New Surroundings Recovery, Holly works to strengthen community connections and promote awareness of the organization's mission. She believes that every individual deserves the opportunity to heal, grow, and build a life filled with purpose and possibility.

Through her commitment to recovery, community engagement, and resident support, Holly helps advance the mission of New Surroundings Recovery and contributes to creating a safe, welcoming environment where women can thrive and achieve long-term success.

About Lisa

Lisa serves as the Spiritual Advisor for New Surroundings Recovery, providing encouragement, guidance, and support to women seeking to strengthen their faith and personal growth during recovery. Through weekly spiritual gatherings, mentorship, and compassionate listening, Lisa helps create a welcoming environment where residents can explore hope, healing, and purpose.

Lisa believes that recovery involves healing the mind, body, and spirit. Her caring nature and commitment to serving others help residents develop inner strength, build meaningful connections, and find encouragement as they navigate their recovery journey. Her support is an important part of the holistic approach that New Surroundings Recovery offers to the women we serve.

About Tiffany 

Tiffany’s journey with New Surroundings Recovery began as a resident, where she grew into the role of House Leader. After graduating from our program, she has returned in a new role—as a Peer Support Specialist on our team.

Her firsthand experience brings a meaningful perspective to supporting the women in our home. She understands the courage it takes to start over and the value of encouragement, connection, and accountability along the way. Tiffany’s journey is a reminder of what’s possible: rebuilding your own life and helping others find hope as they rebuild theirs.