AJ Llona
Founder & Program Director
After 15 years of addiction to meth — homeless for 8, in and out of jail and prison — AJ found his path to recovery through treatment and the grace of God. AJ founded Direct Recovery Support to be a bridge for people with lived experience to get assistance with the obstacles everyone faces when trying to get on the path of long-term recovery, as well as to be a support and a guide. AJ’s team is here to help from a place of caring and experience.
Jeremy Nordstrom has been in long-term recovery for over eight years and has dedicated his career to supporting others on their path to overcoming addiction. He has served in a variety of roles across the recovery field, including Recovery Coach, Charge Staff, and Recovery Coach Supervisor at Teen Challenge, as well as Peer Recovery Support Specialist with the Minnesota Prevention and Recovery Alliance (MNPRA). Jeremy brings that same commitment to Direct Recovery Support as Co-Founder and COO, where he leads peer services and operations with the passion and lived experience that drives everything this organization does.
Founder & Chief Operating Officer
Jeremy Nordstrom
Amanda Nordstrom
Founder & Chief Executive Officer
Amanda has been in long-term recovery for 8 years and is deeply committed to helping others find freedom from addiction. Her passion for recovery has driven her to excel in various roles within the field. Amanda began her journey as a Recovery Coach and Peer Recovery Specialist at Teen Challenge, where she provided vital support to individuals seeking a fresh start. She later joined the Minnesota Prevention Recovery Alliance (MNPRA) as the Recovery Services Manager, where she helped expand recovery services and advocate for those impacted by addiction. Amanda's personal experience, professional expertise, and unwavering dedication make her an invaluable asset to the recovery community. She continues to inspire and empower others on their paths to healing and hope.
Nathan Gruber
Founder & Chief Financial Officer
Nathan Gruber's career began as an auditor for the State of Wisconsin, where he developed strong analytical skills and a meticulous attention to detail. He went on to work at a CPA firm before founding Simply Tax, Inc. in 2019 — a tax and accounting business serving individuals and businesses across the region. Nathan also operates The Matthew Project, a nonprofit he established in 2022 with a focus on helping those in need. He brings that same commitment to Direct Recovery Support as CFO, where he leads the organization's financial operations with integrity and care.