Earle "RJ" Van's Legacy

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 In 2018, Earle Van founded Hope on Deck after finding recovery and becoming an interventionist. As a treatment advocate, Earle walked among those struggling with addiction in Kensington, Pennsylvania, the East Coast's largest open-air drug market, and traveled all over the country doing outreach missions. With compassion and empathy, he met people where they were, guiding them into treatment and supporting their recovery journeys.

Earle's influence extended to social media. He shared his daily life through his Earle Van and Hope on Deck Facebook pages and Instagram, documenting outreach missions, interventions, and public speaking events. This online presence won the hearts of thousands across the globe.

In late 2019, Earle passed the torch to his mother, who continues his mission.

 The community and his family are now  mourning the devastating loss of a courageous individual. Earle's untimely passing on December 4, 2023, after a relapse, serves as a poignant reminder of the unrelenting grip of addiction . Addiction is a fierce and relentless adversary, and relapses are a painful testament to its power. Yet, Earle's story also underscores the importance of compassion, empathy, and unwavering support.If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, please know that you're not alone. There is hope, and there is help:

• National Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Hotline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

Hope on Deck's Impact

Today, Hope on Deck is a solely volunteer-based, boots-on-the-ground organization with:

• Over 400 volunteers annually
• Over 60,000  lives touched through outreach, Narcan training events, and resource provision since 2018.
• Support for rehabs, resource centers,  detox centers and other organizations with clothing and hygiene items

Expanding Mission

In 2023, Hope on Deck expanded its mission to include supporting foster children affected by parental addiction, providing:

• Clothing
• School necessities
• Hygiene items

Continuing Earle's Legacy

Hope on Deck remains committed to:

1. Educating about the disease of addiction
2. Promoting harm reduction through Narcan training
3. Guiding those struggling into recovery
4. Supporting individuals in recovery

Email info@hopeondeck.org for more information.