director bio:

My name is RJ, and I have the honor of serving as the Community Director for Emerge New Growth Community. My journey to this role is deeply personal. There was a time in my life when I felt lost—spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and socially. Survival was my focus; faith felt like a distant concept. My relationships were strained, my career was unraveling, and I was living in deep financial scarcity. I had built walls so high that anyone who tried to break through was met with resistance and regret.

But instead of remaining in that place of pain, I chose a different path—one rooted in service to others. That decision led me to Emerge, through the encouragement and care of previous leaders and dear friends, Jeremy and Charlie Russo. Emerge became a place where I was reminded of who I truly am: a compassionate, humble man, capable of healing and growth. It was there that I met my life coach and others who, like me, were searching for what it truly means to have faith—in self, in others, and in something greater.

Today, I lead with a deep commitment to preserving and expanding the mental health support and compassionate care that changed my life. I believe in the power of transparent integrity and in uplifting the people around me to step into their own strength. Every person is their own compass—and their own hourglass. It’s my mission to walk beside them as they discover that for themselves.