A Legacy of Healing, Hope and Transformation
From humble beginnings to a legacy of hope-Ebony House Inc. stands as a powerful force in behavioral health and addiction recovery. Under the leadership of Dr. Che Jordan, the organization is forging a future rooted in compassion, community, and transformation.
Can you provide a brief history of Ebony House Inc., and its founding mission?
Ebony House Inc. was founded in 1973 in South Phoenix by Elbertzena “Elba” Fontinot, a courageous woman in recovery who began the organization with just $500 and a powerful vision. Motivated by her own journey and a divine calling, she set out to create a safe haven for individuals struggling with substance use and mental health challenges. Rooted in love and compassion, Ebony House was built to serve as a transformative force in the community—dedicated to restoring lives, strengthening families, and empowering those impacted by addiction and mental health disorders.
Dr. Gene Blue, Chairman of the Board and longtime friend of Mrs. Elba for over 45 years, has continued to carry forward her legacy. Before her passing in December 2023, he had the privilege of spending time with her and further committed himself to advancing the agency’s mission of being a beacon of hope and healing in the Phoenix community.
What sets your addiction recovery and behavioural health services apart from others?
At Ebony House Inc., our approach to addiction recovery and behavioural health is deeply rooted in the values of empathy, gratitude, patience, humility and respect. These principles guide every aspect of the care we provide. What truly sets us apart is our commitment to holistic support—offering a wide range of resources and connections that go beyond traditional treatment.
A key component of our success is the involvement of our Alumni network—men and women who have maintained sobriety for 15, 20 even 30 years. These individuals serve as living examples of transformation and resilience. They mentor and inspire current clients, offering real-world advice, encouragement and a vision of what life in recovery can look like.
We not only help individuals begin their journey to sobriety, but we also foster a community where recovery thrives—where former clients build businesses, support others and contribute meaningfully to their neighbourhoods. It’s this cycle of healing and empowerment that makes our services stand out.
How does the organization plan to adapt to emerging societal and economic challenges?
Ebony House Inc. is proactively evolving to meet the growing societal and economic challenges by expanding both our local partnerships and global relationships. We are committed to being a trusted resource not only for families in our community but also for refugees and underserved populations worldwide who need access to vital information on HIV, mental health and substance use.
To ensure long-term sustainability and growth, we are strategically positioning ourselves to secure grant funding and broaden our service offerings across the region. By staying connected, responsive and forward-thinking, we aim to remain a resilient and impactful organization in the face of changing times.
Can you share a success story that exemplifies the impact of your programs?
At Ebony House Inc., the transformative journeys of individuals like Robert Holloway and Michael Berry truly exemplify the power and impact of our programs.
Robert Holloway, now a valued board member, is a testament to how recovery can restore not only personal dignity but also family connections. Through his sobriety, Robert gave his mother back a son she could recognize, a child their father, and a wife her husband—sober, present and full of life.
Michael Berry, one of our proud graduates, turned his recovery into a mission. After overcoming his own struggles, he now shares the tools, resources and knowledge he gained to help others maintain long-term sobriety. His story proves that with the right support, it’s possible not only to get clean but to stay clean for decades.
Their experiences embody the spirit of our mission—that no matter how long someone has battled addiction, a new beginning is possible. Recovery happens One Day at a Time and at Ebony House, no one walks that journey alone.
What are the core services and programs offered by Ebony House Inc.?
Ebony House Inc. offers a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the diverse needs of our clients and their families. Our core programs include:
- Men’s and Women’s Residential Substance Use Treatment: Structured, supportive environments designed to help individuals recover from addiction through evidence-based care and personal empowerment.
- Intensive Outpatient Services: Focused support for individuals managing mild to moderate substance use and behavioural health challenges, allowing them to receive care while maintaining daily responsibilities.
- Youth Behavioural Health Services: Provided through our Children’s Clinic, we offer specialized care for children from birth to age 17. Services are aimed at stabilizing behaviours, strengthening social skills, and reinforcing healthy family relationships.
- HIV/AIDS & STD Outreach and Prevention: Our outreach clinic delivers vital education and prevention resources to high-risk populations, empowering individuals with knowledge and access to care.
- Primary Medical Care: Accessible and affordable health services ensure that physical wellness is integrated into the recovery journey, helping clients maintain overall well-being.
Through these core programs, Ebony House Inc. supports individuals and families on their path to healing, stability, and lifelong wellness.
What partnerships or collaborations have helped expand your reach and effectiveness?
Ebony House Inc. has built strong partnerships and collaborations with local universities, churches and healthcare organizations to broaden our reach and enhance the effectiveness of our services. These alliances ensure that individuals and families have access to critical information and resources needed to support their mental health, recovery and overall well-being.
Through these collaborations, we’ve been able to bridge service gaps—stepping in where other organizations may be limited—by serving as an olive branch of support. Whether it’s providing care referrals, shared resources, or community outreach, our partnerships enable us to extend our impact and ensure that no one falls through the cracks when seeking help.
Who are the key leaders at Ebony House, Inc., and what inspired them to join the organization?
Two of the key leaders at Ebony House Inc. are Dr. Gene Blue, Chairman of the Board, and Robert Holloway, a board member and proud program graduate.
Dr. Gene Blue has been a visionary leader and close partner to Ebony House founder Elbertzena “Elba” Fontinot for over 45 years. Deeply committed to the mission given by God to serve the South Phoenix community—particularly the African American population—Dr. Blue has played a pivotal role in expanding the organization’s reach and impact. His dedication to improving lives through behavioural health and recovery services reflects his unwavering belief in community healing and empowerment.
Robert Holloway’s journey is one of transformation. Once struggling with addiction, he found hope, support and purpose through Ebony House. The organization helped change his life and now he leads by example, showing others that recovery is possible. His lived experience drives his passion for helping others reclaim their lives and contributes to the authenticity and effectiveness of Ebony House’s mission.
Together, Dr. Blue and Robert Holloway continue to share their stories to inspire individuals of all backgrounds. Their leadership underscores Ebony House Inc.’s role as a beacon of hope, healing and opportunity for those seeking wellness, recovery and a second chance at life.
“Empowering Recovery, One Life at a Time.”
“Where Hope Lives and Healing Begins.”
Company Name : Ebony House, Inc
Website: https://www.ebonyhouseinc.org/
Management Team
Dr. Che Jordan | President & CEO
