Founder & Executive Director
Mara Vandongen
My journey has been anything but easy. I’ve faced eating disorders, manic behaviors fueled by substance use, and the deep pain of healing from sexual assault. For years, I searched for peace through therapies like EMDR and other treatment approaches. While they gave me valuable tools, I still felt a sense of instability — until I discovered the recovery community. A pivotal moment in my life was meeting my now husband, who has been in recovery for over ten years after overcoming a heroin addiction. Witnessing his strength, perseverance, and the powerful impact of his recovery inspired me deeply and opened my eyes to the transformative possibilities within the recovery world. His journey, along with my own, guided me toward a path of purpose and connection, showing me that healing is not only possible but sustainable with the right support. As a Certified Peer Recovery Coach with an educational background in psychology, my passion is helping other women find the same healing and growth that changed my life. I founded Solstice Sober Living to create a safe, empowering space where women can rebuild their lives, heal from trauma, and discover their own unique path to long-term recovery — surrounded by a community that truly understands and supports them.
Owner & Director of Operations
Nichole Gillen
A Certified Peer Recovery Coach and Qualified Behavioral Health Aide (QBHA) with 8 years of sustained sobriety. Recovery has completely transformed my life. I leaned on faith, 12-step work, and a strong spiritual foundation to build the life I have today, and I know firsthand that healing requires more than just abstinence. Lasting recovery comes from structure, accountability, spiritual connection, and a supportive community. That’s why I am so passionate about providing a safe, empowering space where women can grow, thrive, and rediscover their strength. In my work, I draw from both professional training and lived experience. I walk alongside the women in our program with empathy, authenticity, and encouragement—helping them build coping skills, create healthy routines, and form meaningful connections. My goal is to offer the same guidance and accountability that was given to me, so every woman here knows she is not alone in her journey. At Solstice Sober Living, I strive to create a structured yet compassionate environment where women can develop stability, purpose, and joy in recovery. I truly believe that with faith, support, and commitment, every woman has the power to succeed and build a beautiful life in sobriety.