Our Story
Built from Lived Experience, Driven by Purpose
Anchor & Ark was born from one woman's journey — and her belief that recovery, freedom, and your pet can all exist in the same place.
"No one should have to choose between their recovery and the pet that helped save their life."
Julie's path to founding Anchor & Ark was shaped by her own lived experience with substance use disorder and justice involvement. Walking that road firsthand gave her something no textbook could — a deep, unshakeable understanding of what people in recovery truly need to rebuild their lives.
In 2020, Julie became a certified peer support specialist and began working in outpatient substance use treatment, walking alongside others on their journeys. In 2024, she transitioned to serving returning citizens and justice-impacted individuals — a population she understood intimately and cared for deeply. Julie holds a Bachelor's degree in Social Work and is currently pursuing her Master's in Social Work- deepening the academic foundation behind the hands-on, heart-led work she does.
Throughout her own recovery, Julie's pets were not a luxury — they were a lifeline. Their unconditional love, emotional support, and steady companionship carried her through some of her hardest days. She saw the same truth reflected in the people she served: for many, their pet is their only family. Their only constant. Their reason to keep going.
Yet time and again, the path to treatment means leaving that animal behind. Julie refuses to accept that as the only option. Anchor & Ark is her answer — a home where hearts keep smiling and tails keep wagging, because healing should never require that kind of sacrifice.
Julie
Founder, Social Worker, Peer Support Specialist
Why We Exist
Our Mission
Anchor & Ark exists to provide recovery-supportive, pet-friendly co-living that grants residents a genuine pathway to personal freedom. We believe that stable housing, peer community, and the bond between a person and their pet are not competing priorities — they are all part of the same healing.
What We Stand For
Our Core Values
Lived Experience Leads
Our founder and community are shaped by real recovery journeys. We don't just understand the path — we've walked it.
Pets Are Part of Recovery
The unconditional love of an animal is a proven source of emotional support. We honor that bond and protect it.
Justice-Informed Care
We welcome returning citizens and justice-impacted individuals without judgment, offering a true fresh start.
Community Over Isolation
Recovery is not a solo journey. Our home is built on peer accountability, shared experience, and genuine connection.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you're looking for a safe place to land or want to support our mission, we'd love to hear from you.