REENTRY NAVIGATOR

Dana Benton’s journey exemplifies resilience, redemption, and the power of second chances. Born and raised in Asheville, NC, Dana is a United States Air Force veteran who was introduced to recovery in 1991. After facing challenges with addiction that led to incarceration in 2008, he found renewed focus through his cherished relationship with his daughter—a bond he refused to lose to addiction.

In 2022, Dana earned his Community Health Worker Certification, paving the way for a new chapter in his life. By December 2023, he was back in recovery. With the support of Philip Cooper, he began an internship with Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities, which led to his current role.

Now, as a reentry navigator at Operation Gateway, Dana works alongside his daughter, helping others on their path to recovery and reintegration. His story of overcoming adversity and restoring relationships inspires those he serves, showing that redemption is always within reach.