About Phoenix Recovery Support Services

“The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Our Mission Statement

The mission of Phoenix Recovery Support Services is to provide accessible, person-centered recovery support services for adults navigating substance use and co-occurring mental health challenges. Through a holistic approach, we offer safe, supportive recovery housing, peer-driven recovery services, and connections to treatment, employment, and community resources—empowering individuals to build sustainable recovery and long-term well-being.

Our Vision

The vision of Phoenix Recovery Support Services is to create a future where individuals in under-resourced and marginalized communities have equitable access to high-quality, person-centered recovery support services through safe recovery housing, peer-driven services, and strong community partnerships.

Sterling J. Gildersleeve has over 30 years of experience in the field of alcoholism and substance use treatment and recovery services with experience in providing management services in halfway house, residential extended care, and sober housing programs. Sterling is a past President of the National Association of Halfway Houses and Recovery Homes (AHHAP) and currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Illinois Association of Extended Care (IAEC). Sterling also served as Co-Chairman of the Housing Committee of the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. Sterling holds a Bachelor of Science in Social Work, is a State of Illinois Certified Alcohol/Drug Counselor, a Nationally Certified Recovery Specialist, a Certified HIV Education & Addiction Counselor and a United States Air Force Veteran.

Sterling J. Gildersleeve, CADC, NCRS, CPRS

President

Celestine Gildersleeve serves as Vice President and CEO of Phoenix Recovery Support Services. With 20 years experience in substance use treatment and recovery services, and an additional 6 years in customer service, product promotion, event planning and recruitment, Celeste brings considerable expertise; and many valuable contacts to her volunteer work and community service. Celestine has served as Regional Director, Secretary, Treasurer, Conference and Committee Chairperson and member for AHHAP (National Association of Halfway House & Alcoholism Programs), IAEC (Illinois Association of Extended Care), Women’s Housing Committee State of Illinois, among others. Celeste holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management with an emphasis in Social Services from Trinity University.

Celestine Gildersleeve, NCRS, CPRS

Vice President

Vauna Hernandez has over two decades of experience in operations, transitional housing, and community-based program development. As Executive Director of Phoenix Recovery Support Services, she oversees programs designed to support individuals impacted by substance use disorder, justice system involvement, and housing instability.

Her leadership is defined by commitment to equity and culturally responsive care. Ms. Hernandez has worked extensively to expand access to recovery housing for diverse communities, addressing the systemic barriers that contribute to health disparities. She is a strong proponent of Medication-Assisted Recovery (MAR) and actively works to reduce stigma through education, compassionate engagement, and the promotion of evidence-based practices. Her emphasis on building recovery capital ensures that residents are equipped with the tools, relationships, and personal growth opportunities necessary for sustained recovery.

Ms. Hernandez serves on the Illinois Opioid Crisis Response Advisory Council and co-leads the Fentanyl Workgroup under the West Side Heroin/Opioid Task Force. Her work reflects a steadfast belief in the transformative role recovery housing plays in restoring lives and strengthening communities.

Vauna Hernandez, NCRS, CPRS, PHR