The Roots to Recovery

Tennessee Team

Jeffrey ‘JJ’ Adams, wearing a black shirt, looking directly at the camera with a calm expression, in a black and white portrait against a plain background.

Roots to Recovery is led by a team of professionals united by lived experience, service-driven leadership, and a shared commitment to real recovery. From clinical experts and veterans to legal and operational leaders, each member brings personal conviction and practical expertise to the mission: expanding access to effective, disciplined, and life-restoring addiction care for those who need it most.

Board of Directors:

Jeffrey “JJ” Andrews: CEO

A veteran and seasoned healthcare leader, JJ brings a mission-driven approach to expanding access to addiction treatment. With a career shaped by service and accountability, he leads Roots to Recovery with a focus on funding high-impact care and helping more people reclaim their lives.

Brandon Fender, Marine Combat Veteran, in a light gray suit with an American flag eye patch and neck tattoos, standing confidently outside a marble capital building.

Brandon Fender: President

A Marine Corps veteran and experienced program director, Brandon leads with structure, compassion, and purpose. At Roots to Recovery, he champions access to proven addiction care that meets people where they are—and helps them rebuild strong, healthy, purpose-driven lives.

Kellie Cahill smiling in a black puffer jacket, standing in a field of tall grass and autumn foliage, gently holding colorful fall leaves with golden trees in the background.

Kellie Cahill: Secretary

An estate lawyer and advocate for practical recovery solutions, Kellie helps ensure Roots to Recovery operates with transparency and strong governance. She’s passionate about removing legal and financial barriers so more people can access the care they need.

Mitzi Dawn wearing black-rimmed glasses, a blush pink sweater, and a red floral skirt, seated confidently on a beige couch with a soft smile and wavy blonde hair against a dark background.

Mitzi Dawn: Treasurer

A former Nashville hit songwriter turned recovery advocate, Mitzi brings deep empathy and sharp leadership to Roots to Recovery. With over 15 years of experience across the treatment field—from clinical support to national development—she now helps steward funding that provides life-saving care to those who need it most.