The Begin Anew Crew
Our highly skilled team leans on self-development and ethics as our keys to success.
At Begin Anew we take pride on fast response to all referrals and going above and beyond for our unique participants. Quality over quantity is paramount to our success.
Justin McNeal
Executive Director
Justin serves as our fearless leader and Executive Director, embodying the belief that there is no single "right or wrong" path to recovery. With personal experience in both recovery and the justice systems, he has spent the past six years developing innovative Peer Recovery Support programs tailored for justice-impacted individuals seeking recovery.
Justin’s extensive background includes years of training both the community and the Peer Recovery Support workforce, equipping them with the tools needed for success. His expertise spans justice systems navigation, building strategic partnerships, ethics, harm reduction, and curriculum development, making him a valuable resource for those seeking education and support in justice-involved recovery initiatives.
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Angie Barkdull
Recovery Navigator
Angela recently graduated from MN Adult and Teen Challenge and is celebrating 21 months of sobriety from meth and alcohol addiction. Her journey has been one of transformation, filled with challenges, but she has found strength, hope, and a renewed sense of purpose along the way.
Now working as a Recovery Navigator, Angela is dedicated to helping others reach their recovery goals. Her personal experiences have taught her that change is possible, and she is committed to being a source of support and inspiration for those facing similar struggles. Angela believes in the power of community and the incredible process of healing, and she strives to guide others as they work to reclaim their lives and build brighter futures for themselves and their families
Amanda Amundson
Recovery Navigator
Amanda is a person in long-term recovery and is currently serving a year-long term with AmeriCorps’ Recovery Corps program. Her journey from addiction to crystal meth left her feeling lifeless and on the verge of losing her children twice to CPS. Now, as a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist, Amanda has found a deep and indescribable joy in life. She has full custody of her children and manages her mental health without turning to substances.
Amanda’s mission as a Recovery Navigator is to help those struggling with addiction, both in active use and recovery, maintain sobriety and access the resources they need to build healthy, independent lives. She is passionate about her work and is dedicated to offering hope to others, proving that recovery is possible.
Ruth Heinonen - Chair
Joe Morris - Vice Chair
Max Kuker - Treasurer
Kirk Lundmark - Secretary
James Burks
Project Coordinator
James is the Project Coordinator at Begin Anew. Originally from Omaha, Nebraska, he is pursuing his MBA at Saint Cloud State University. James helps the company build capacity, work on special projects, and network with similar organizations to Begin Anew. He is excited to be a part of the team and looks forward to helping individuals start a new chapter in their lives. Outside of his professional role, James enjoys wrestling, cooking, and socializing with others.