06/18/2026
🌟 STAFF SPOTLIGHT: JOE VEER 🌟
This week, we're proud to spotlight Joe Veer, Program Coordinator II, whose story is a powerful example of hope, perseverance, and the life-changing impact of recovery.
Joe has been part of the NEARRC family for four years and currently oversees recovery program operations, participant services, compliance efforts, scheduling, community partnerships, and recovery-focused initiatives. His work helps ensure that every participant receives the support, structure, and encouragement needed to pursue lasting recovery.
What inspired Joe to work in the recovery field is deeply personal.
"I am a survivor of a lifetime of addiction, with nine years clean and sober, so I understand what that darkness feels like. My experiences inspired me to work in recovery because I want to be a voice for those who feel lost and hopeless and help serve as a bridge to a healthier, more fulfilling way of life."
For Joe, the most rewarding part of working at NEARRC is watching people discover that recovery is possible.
"Having lived through addiction myself, I know how powerful it is when someone begins to believe in themselves again. Being able to offer support, encouragement, and hope during that journey is incredibly rewarding. I also feel fortunate to work alongside an amazing team of dedicated professionals who share the same passion for helping others. Together, we make a difference in people's lives every day, and that gives my work purpose and meaning."
Joe wishes more people understood that recovery is about much more than completing a program.
"Recovery is an opportunity for a brand-new way of life, a life filled with peace, joy, purpose, and hope. It isn't always easy, but the rewards of healing and personal growth make the journey worthwhile every single day."
One of Joe's greatest strengths is his ability to connect with people through empathy and understanding. Drawing from his own recovery journey, he strives to create an environment where participants feel seen, heard, supported, and encouraged.
When asked what motivates him on difficult days, Joe points to the people served by NEARRC and the team he works alongside.
"Even small victories can make a lasting impact, and knowing that I may be helping someone take the first step toward a better future keeps me motivated. I'm also encouraged by the support of my amazing team, whose dedication and passion remind me that we are making a difference together."
One scripture that continues to inspire him is Galatians 6:9:
"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."
Joe says this verse reminds him to keep showing up, even on difficult days, because every act of support and encouragement can make a difference in someone's recovery journey.
One accomplishment Joe is especially proud of is earning the trust and confidence of the organization and its people.
"I started as a Counselor-in-Training and worked my way into the role of Program Coordinator. For me, that journey represents much more than a promotion. When I was trapped in addiction, I lacked the character, integrity, and trustworthiness essential to success. Today, being entrusted with the daily operations of the facility is a reminder of how far I've come and what recovery has made possible."
Outside of work, Joe enjoys spending time with his family and church family, riding his Harley, and expressing his creativity through painting.
🎨 Favorite Hobby: Painting or riding his Harley
🍽️ Favorite Food: "Anything, I love to cook, and I love to eat!"
🎵 Current Favorite Song: Come, Jesus, Come by Stephen McWhirter, but this is subject to change daily.
Fun Fact: Joe is a published author. In January 2026, his research, "A Qualitative Interpretive Meta-Synthesis on Permanent Housing as a Pathway to Mental Health and Social Well-Being," was published in The Journal of Mental Health and Social Behavior.
Education, Credentials, and Recognition
• Bachelor of Arts in Human Services, Southern New Hampshire University (2024)
• Executive Member, National Society of Leadership and Success
• Certified Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselor (ADC)
• Licensed Associate Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (LAADAC)
• 2024 AAADAC New Counselor of the Year
• Judge Charles Dallas Above and Beyond Standard of Excellence Award Recipient (Crowley's Ridge Development Council)
• Master of Social Work final year student, University of Arkansas at Little Rock
• Society for Collegiate Leadership and Achievement
• Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society
• Phi Alpha Social Work Honor Society
❤️ What does recovery mean to Joe?
"Recovery is the gift of a new life, one filled with hope, purpose, peace, and the freedom to become the person God created me to be."
💬 Joe's message to anyone entering treatment:
"If you're ready to lace up your boots and do the work, we will stand beside you every step of the way. Recovery is possible, but no one can work harder for your recovery than you. When you commit to the process, you'll never have to walk the journey alone. It is all worth it."
Thank you, Joe, for your leadership, dedication, and commitment to helping others discover hope, healing, and lasting recovery. Your journey is a testament to what is possible when recovery is embraced one day at a time.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone. At NEARRC, we offer a full continuum of care to support lasting recovery, including residential treatment, PHP, IOP, mental health and co-occurring services, and transitional living.
We are ACC-approved, accept Ambetter and Blue Cross insurance, and proudly offer some of the lowest self-pay rates around, because getting help should always be within reach.
Recovery is possible, and it starts with one step.
Call us today at 870-932-0228 to learn more or begin the admissions process.
You are not alone. Let us walk this journey with you.