People sitting in a circle holding hands in support

About us.

Founded in 2015 by two men in long-term recovery, with a vision of a supportive home where you can thrive.

Our story

Sunlight of the Spirit House was founded in 2015 by Matthew Bartelt and Matthew Douglas, both in successful long-term recovery, with a vision of providing a supportive environment in which you will thrive as you continue to grow skills that will sustain you in recovery. With 7 homes (and growing) in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, we are dedicated not just to the well being of our residents but also to being a force for good in our community.

We want you to experience freedom from substance use disorder and live a full, joyful, productive life. Our structured environment is geared toward supporting you in a new design for living through taking the actions of the 12 Steps and other pathways. There are many 12 Step meetings nearby, including a weekly meeting run by SOS, and outpatient treatment services. Each resident is assigned a Certified Recovery Specialist (CRS). Your CRS will help you prepare for your new beginning in recovery by assisting with goal setting and connecting you with helpful resources. They will also assist you in looking for work, securing important documentation and, where needed, prepare for court hearings.

Our houses are conveniently located in safe, quiet residential areas with good employment opportunities and access to public transportation. As a new resident, we’ll provide you with help getting on your feet, securing essential needs, and job search support.

Our values

Integrity
We do the right thing.
Honesty
We tell the truth in our words and with our actions.
Service
We find joy, connection, and healing in service to others.

Our Stories

Matthew Bartelt

Matthew Bartelt

Sober since June 7, 2007, I believe that the solutions for alcoholism and addiction can be found in working the 12 steps. I have dedicated the past 16 years to working with newcomers and guiding them through the 12 steps so they can have their own spiritual experience. Spending years in and out of institutions and jails from ages 12–22, I have had a profound change in perspective through my experience in the rooms of Alcoholics Anonymous.

Matthew Douglas

Matthew Douglas

Sober since January 14, 2008, I firmly believe in utilizing the 12 steps as primary means of my recovery from alcoholism and addiction. Since coming into the program I’ve had many amazing experiences such as joining the Navy and being deployed in 2009 and 2010. I have enjoyed a renewed relationship with family and friends, have traveled the world and practice the principles of this program in all my affairs. The blessings have been abundant including the ability to give back today.

Brooke Shockley

Brooke Shockley, CRS, CRSS

On New Year’s Eve 2013, at 28 years old, I had my last relapse. I knew I needed more help, and I found my solution in the 12 Steps. With the support of my sponsor, my home group, my loving family, and the fellowship, I fully committed to sobriety and learned to take responsibility for my life. Through spiritual growth, I learned to respect myself and others. Recovery has given me a successful career, a loving home, and a family of my own. At Sunlight of the Spirit, I get to use what I’ve learned to help others who are struggling with alcohol and drug addiction, because I know the only way to keep what I’ve been given is to pass this way of life on.

Ready to talk about your next step?

Call Sunlight of the Spirit House to speak with someone directly.