Empowering Recovery and Changing Lives: Dr. Jordan and the Legacy of Ebony House

Empowering Recovery and Changing Lives Dr. Che Jordan EBONY HOUSE INC The Enterprise World

Substance abuse continues to be one of the most pressing challenges in the United States, with alarming statistics underscoring its severity. In the past year alone, 48.5 million Americans aged 12 and older—16.7% of the population—struggled with a substance use disorder. Alcohol use disorders impacted 10.2% of the same age group, while 27.2 million people, or 9.7%, battled drug addiction. Behind these numbers are countless lives disrupted and families torn apart by the devastating effects of addiction.

Yet, amid this harsh reality, some leaders dedicate their lives to turning these statistics around, offering hope and a path to recovery. Dr. Che Jordan, President and CEO of Ebony House Inc., is one such visionary. With a passion for transformative change, Dr. Jordan has committed his career to supporting those affected by substance use and mental health challenges. Dr. Jordan’s dedication to his mission ensures that both clients and employees thrive in an environment where dignity, care, and results are at the forefront.

A Legacy of Hope and Healing

With just $500 in her pocket and the strength of her own journey as a recovering alcoholic, Elbertzena Fontinote laid the foundation for an organization that has since transformed countless lives. Over the decades, Ebony House has remained a crucial pillar in the community, offering life-saving services to individuals of all races and backgrounds. Though Fontinote passed away in December 2023, her legacy continues through the leadership of Dr. Che Jordan, who has embraced her mission with untiring dedication.

Dr. Che Jordan, who assumed the role of president and CEO in December 2022, stepped in at a critical time. As similar facilities across Arizona were closing their doors, Dr. Jordan kept Ebony House thriving and maintained a client satisfaction rate of over 90%. As Dr. Jordan himself often says, “The disease doesn’t have a day off, so I don’t either. I was put on this planet to serve people.”

Dr. Jordan’s compassionate, hands-on approach is evident in the way he connects with those who come to Ebony House. Many clients arrive facing immense challenges—homelessness, hunger, or fresh out of incarceration—but from the moment they step through the door, they are met with the organization’s warmth and commitment. Whether it’s sharing meals, playing basketball, or participating in group therapy, he ensures that everyone feels supported. Dr. Jordan has made sure that clients leave Ebony House prepared for a new chapter, even providing suits for their return to the workforce, instilling them with confidence to rebuild their lives.

Under his leadership, Ebony House has experienced consistency in having the residential and supported housing services full, increasing the number of client referrals for service. One of his initiatives is to develop an emergency home for military veterans and individuals living with HIV, offering rent-free housing for 30-90 days. His vision and compassion continue to drive Ebony House forward, ensuring that the organization remains at the forefront for those in need.

From Community Initiative to National Beacon of Hope

Since its founding in 1973, Ebony House Inc. has been a cornerstone in the Phoenix community, offering high-quality behavioral health programs and serving as a vital lifeline. Established by Elbertzena, who recognized the need for a treatment facility that targeted the African American community. Ebony House began its journey focused on addressing alcoholism within Phoenix’s African American population. Over the years, the organization has expanded its reach, now offering comprehensive treatment services to individuals of all ethnic backgrounds.

From its grassroots beginnings as a community-driven, word-of-mouth initiative, Ebony House has grown into a nationally and globally recognized institution. In 2024, it received the prestigious Global Recognition Award, was featured on ‘The Balancing Act’ with Montel Williams, and was honored with the BNS Trust Award. These accolades are a testament to its continued commitment to excellence and inclusivity. 

Under Dr. Che Jordan’s leadership, the organization has strengthened its connection to the broader community, engaging an alumni network of former clients who have maintained sobriety for 15, 20, or even 30 years. These individuals now return to mentor and support those currently in the program, enabling a strong, enduring community that champions ongoing recovery.  

Comprehensive Services for Recovery

Ebony House offers a wide range of compassionate services designed to support individuals in recovery and stability. Ebony House provides specialized programs tailored to meet diverse needs.

Empowering Recovery and Changing Lives Dr. Che Jordan EBONY HOUSE INC The Enterprise World
Men’s Residential Treatment:A structured environment for men to focus on substance abuse rehabilitation.
Women’s Residential Treatment:Comprehensive 24-hour supervised care for women seeking recovery.
Supported Housing for Adults:No-cost housing for individuals who have completed treatment, helping them transition back into the community.

For adults requiring less intensive care, outpatient services are available, targeting those who have experienced mild to moderate impairments. These services empower individuals to manage their challenges while maintaining daily responsibilities.

It also offers youth behavioral health outpatient services, providing children and young adults with the tools to stabilize behaviors and adjust to life’s challenges.

Additionally, the organization runs HIV/AIDS/STD outreach and prevention programs, focusing on high-risk communities and providing education and resources to prevent disease spread. With a broad spectrum of services, Ebony House remains a trusted source of hope and support for those seeking a path forward.

Enhancing Accessibility and Support for All

In 2023, the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) faced significant challenges, losing billions of dollars to fraudulent activities and impacting the funding available for health care services. This led to changes in the billable pay rate for service providers, creating operational hurdles for many organizations, including Ebony House. Despite these challenges, it demonstrated resilience and successfully maintained full capacity in its residential and supported housing facilities throughout the year.

Looking ahead to 2024, the demand for services has only intensified, prompting Ebony House to take proactive steps to enhance its offerings. Recognizing the need for greater accessibility, the organization plans to introduce virtual counseling services. This innovative approach will cater to working professionals who struggle to find time for treatment due to work commitments. This allows them to complete the necessary paperwork online and connect with a counselor without any physical appointment.

Empowering Recovery and Changing Lives Dr. Che Jordan EBONY HOUSE INC The Enterprise World
Enhanced Accessibility:Virtual counseling services will assist working professionals, single parents, and families without transportation, ensuring that everyone can access the help they need.
Convenience for Single Parents:Virtual options help parents who cannot take time off or manage transportation issues, making treatment more attainable.
Support for the Uninsured:Ebony House will leverage grants to provide treatment for individuals without insurance, ensuring financial difficulties don’t become a barrier to care.
Seamless Online Process:Individuals can complete paperwork online, reducing the need for time off work or in-person visits for initial treatment steps.
Serving Remote Communities:Virtual services will reach those in rural or underserved areas, increasing Ebony House’s ability to provide care where it’s most needed.

Furthermore, Ebony House is committed to supporting individuals who lack insurance coverage by leveraging grants to ensure that no one turns away from treatment due to financial barriers. Through these initiatives, the organization is poised to expand its impact, providing vital support to those in need.

A Leadership Committed to Recovery

Dr. Che Jordan embodies a servant leadership philosophy centered on long-term recovery and trust-building in a system often plagued by detachment and bureaucracy. He has focused on more than just treating addiction, as he is dedicated to rebuilding lives. His continuous care model addresses the industry’s fragmented approach, ensuring that support is provided.

The organization’s success is rooted in its belief that human connection is as crucial as clinical success. Dr. Jordan ensures that every individual feels seen and heard by promoting respect and accountability.

He also focuses on identifying and developing talent in the organization by working with forward-thinking individuals. Dr. Jordan sees mentorship as essential for professional and personal growth. By creating an environment where employees feel appreciated, he nurtures loyalty and commitment to the organization’s mission, resulting in better client care. Through his leadership, Dr. Che Jordan inspires positive change within Ebony House and the lives of those they serve.

Pillars of Success

Dr. Che Jordan attributes the organization’s long-standing success to the cultivation of a supportive and value-driven culture. His innovative approach to client care, combined with a focus on long-term employee and client satisfaction, has established Ebony House as a leader in substance abuse treatment.

Ebony House is recognized by ABC 15 Sonoran Living as Global Recognition Award and named the Best Business in America. Dr. Jordan himself was announced as one of the Top 100 Innovators and Entrepreneurs, featured in CEO Weekly Magazine, and received the 2024 World CEO Award for Best Innovative CEO at the city level, 2024 American College of Healthcare Executives Regent’s Award further underscoring his impactful leadership.

Through these achievements, Ebony House continues to make a lasting difference in the community, helping individuals achieve sustained recovery and meaningful life changes. Dr. Che Jordan’s vision and dedication ensure that the organization addresses the needs of those struggling and fosters an environment where clients can transform their lives.

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