Team

Lisa Persaud is a proud South Carolina native and a passionate advocate for affordable and workforce housing. With years of experience in community development, Lisa has dedicated her career to creating supportive, stable environments for individuals seeking a path toward independence and healing.

As a long-time survivor of domestic violence, Lisa holds the mission of Recovery Base close to her heart. Her personal journey and professional work with independent living organizations revealed a critical gap: the lack of high-quality, home-like recovery housing. Motivated by this need, she founded Recovery Base with the vision of offering a welcoming, residential space that not only feels like home—but becomes a true foundation for long-term recovery.

Lisa believes that a safe, comforting environment can be transformative in a person’s healing journey, and she is committed to helping others regain their footing, dignity, and self-worth.

Favorite Quote:
“Happiness is the true measure of success.” 

Juan Ocasio – Director of Male Housing, Peer Support Specialist & Pastor
Juan Ocasio serves as the Director of Male Housing at Recovery Base, where he provides spiritual guidance, emotional support, and practical leadership to men in recovery. As both a Peer Support Specialist and ordained Pastor, Juan brings a unique blend of lived experience, faith-based encouragement, and compassionate mentorship to his role.

With a background shaped by personal transformation and a deep commitment to service, Juan understands the importance of structure, accountability, and grace in the recovery process. His journey through faith and healing allows him to walk alongside residents not only as a leader—but as someone who truly understands the battles they face.

At Recovery Base, Juan is responsible for overseeing daily operations within the male housing program, ensuring each resident is supported physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Whether through one-on-one conversations or group sessions, Juan empowers men to rebuild their lives with dignity, responsibility, and renewed purpose.

Favorite Quote:
“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.” 

Marcos Do Mato – Director of Veteran Affairs and Placement
Marcos Do Mato is a proud veteran of the United States Navy, where he served his country with honor and integrity before receiving an honorable discharge. Today, he continues his commitment to service by pursuing a law degree at The Citadel and dedicating his efforts to supporting fellow veterans through his leadership at Recovery Base.

Coming from a proud military family with a deep legacy of service—his grandfather a Marine and Vietnam veteran, his great-grandfathers having served in both the Navy and Army—Marcos understands the unique challenges veterans face after discharge. His family also carries the honor of being a Gold Star family, a distinction that fuels his drive to ensure no veteran is left behind.

At Recovery Base, Marcos oversees veteran affairs and placement, helping to bridge the gap between military service and successful reintegration into civilian life. His passion lies in creating pathways for veterans to access stable housing, meaningful support, and a sense of belonging.

Favorite Quote:
“Everything I am and everything I will ever be, I owe to my angel mother.

Erica Fountain – Director of intake and woman's housing, Peer Support Specialist
Erica Fountain is a compassionate and dedicated Peer Support Specialist with a deep commitment to long-term recovery and community healing. Drawing from her own lived experience with addiction, incarceration, and survival in high-risk environments, Erica uses her personal journey as a source of strength and inspiration to guide others on the path to recovery.

During her time of incarceration, Erica completed a transformative rehabilitation program that became the foundation for a new beginning. Since then, she has emerged as a powerful advocate—especially for individuals struggling with self-esteem, trauma, and the often-overlooked challenges of reintegration into society.

At Recovery Base, Erica's mission is to support individuals with empathy and authenticity, meeting them where they are and helping them reclaim their lives with dignity and hope. Her approach is rooted in resilience, compassion, and the unwavering belief that recovery is not only possible—but profoundly life-changing.

Favorite Quote:
“The only thing to fear is fear itself.”