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Our Story
N2 Action Recovery Group was founded on the belief that every person deserves the opportunity to rebuild their life with dignity, hope, and support. Born from a deep understanding of the challenges faced by individuals and families affected by substance use disorders, mental health conditions, housing instability, incarceration, and other systemic barriers, our organization exists to create pathways toward lasting recovery and self-sufficiency.
Recognizing that recovery extends beyond overcoming addiction, we take a holistic approach that addresses the social, emotional, economic, and personal factors that influence long-term success. Our founders envisioned an organization where people are met with compassion rather than judgment and where every individual has access to the resources, guidance, and opportunities needed to thrive.
Today, N2 Action Recovery Group is committed to empowering individuals and strengthening communities through advocacy, education, supportive services, and collaborative partnerships. We believe that healing is possible when people are provided with stable housing, meaningful employment opportunities, mental health support, recovery resources, and a strong network of encouragement.
James S. Thomas
Founder and Chairman
James S. Thomas is a respected community leader, violence prevention advocate, and recovery mentor with more than 22 years of sustained recovery from substance use disorder. Having helped over 500 individuals begin and maintain their recovery journeys, James has dedicated his life to helping people overcome addiction, trauma, violence, and other barriers to long-term stability.
Born and raised on Chicago’s South Side, James witnessed firsthand the effects of poverty, community violence, and substance abuse. After leaving behind gang involvement and street life, he committed himself to creating positive change in the communities where he once struggled.
In 2001, James became one of the first Youth Outreach Workers with Chicago’s pioneering CeaseFire initiative, now known as Cure Violence. He mentored high-risk youth, connected them to education and employment opportunities, and developed community programs that offered alternatives to violence and gang involvement.
Today, James serves as Founder and Chairman of N2 Action Recovery Group, where he is leading the development of a Recovery Home and Community Center focused on healing the root causes of addiction through housing, mental health services, recovery coaching, workforce development, and trauma-informed care. Guided by his lived experience and decades of community service, James remains committed to restoring hope, healing, and opportunity for individuals and families seeking recovery.
Michael J. Thomas
Executive Director
Michael J. Thomas is a public service and nonprofit leader committed to creating stronger, more equitable communities.
As Executive Director of N2 Action Recovery Group, he provides strategic leadership focused on recovery, housing stability, community partnerships, and connecting individuals and families to the resources they need to thrive.
Michael brings experience in organizational leadership, public policy, equity and inclusion, and community engagement. His professional and leadership experiences include the Oklahoma Policy Institute, Arkansas Public Policy Panel, University of Chicago Booth School of Business, and the National Forum for Black Public Administrators (NFBPA).
At the heart of Michael’s work is a belief in the power of opportunity, collaboration, and community. He is passionate about bringing people and organizations together to address barriers, strengthen support systems, and create pathways toward lasting stability and well-being.
Our Mission
N2 Action Recovery Group is committed to helping individuals and families impacted by substance use disorders, trauma, mental health challenges, and life instability achieve lasting recovery and self-sufficiency. Through compassionate support, recovery housing, workforce development, mental health resources, and community partnerships, we empower individuals to rebuild their lives and become active, healthy members of their communities.
Our Vision
N2 Action Recovery Group envisions a future where every individual impacted by addiction, trauma, mental health challenges, and systemic barriers has access to the resources, support, and opportunities necessary to achieve lasting recovery and personal success. We strive to build stronger, healthier communities by empowering individuals and families to heal, reclaim their purpose, and become leaders who inspire hope, resilience, and positive change for future generations.
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Staff
Michael J. Thomas, Executive Director
Michael J. Thomas is a higher education and nonprofit leader with extensive experience in organizational leadership, community engagement, diversity, equity and inclusion, and strategic program development. Throughout his career, he has led initiatives that foster belonging, build community partnerships, and expand access to opportunities for historically underserved populations. His professional experiences span higher education administration, public policy, leadership development, and large-scale community programming.
As Executive Director of N2 Action Recovery Group, Michael is committed to building sustainable systems of support that address recovery holistically by integrating mental health services, workforce development, educational access, family support, and community partnerships. He is passionate about creating transformative spaces where individuals and families can heal, grow, and thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find quick answers about our recovery services, enrollment, and support options
What services do you provide?
We provide recovery housing, mental wellness resources, workforce training, and family support tailored to your needs.
Is my information kept confidential?
Absolutely. Confidentiality and safety are fundamental to our care approach.
How long do programs last?
Program length varies from short workshops to extended recovery housing stays, depending on individual needs.
