What does it take to turn trauma and addiction into a life of service and hope? In this episode of the No Street Lights Podcast, Aaron sits down with Steve Belisky, a former Army Ranger whose journey from trauma and addiction to recovery and community advocacy is nothing short of inspiring. Steve opens up about his struggles with substance use, the consequences of addiction, and how he found purpose by helping others facing homelessness, mental health challenges, and recovery.
Now deeply involved in grassroots outreach across West Virginia, Steve shares what it’s like to support the unhoused, the barriers they face (like lack of ID and safe housing), and why compassion and patience are vital in breaking cycles of despair. From his own lived experience to his advocacy with groups like West Virginia Goes Purple and House to Home, Steve’s story is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible and real change begins with community.
✨ Things You’ll Hear in This Episode:
Steve’s early life marked by trauma, abuse, and addiction
The military’s impact on his discipline, patience, and resilience
Lessons learned through legal troubles and recovery setbacks
Why compassion is the key to supporting people in addiction and homelessness
The critical role of housing in building stability for recovery
The challenges of stigma and how it affects community progress
Grassroots movements like WV Goes Purple making real change
How every individual is one mistake away from homelessness and why we must care
🔗 Organizations Mentioned in This Episode:
PHAC Volunteer Corps: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1306539637104521
Moon King: https://www.facebook.com/moon.king.18058
West Virginia Goes Purple: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wvgoespurple
House to Home: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570010078325
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🌐 Website: https://nostreetlights.org
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🎵 Music by Hyland Markle — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hylandmarkle
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