As the grandson of Dewey, the namesake of our community, Shawn Marcum has embraced the call to carry on his grandfather’s legacy of faith, hope, and healing. Living a life of sobriety, Shawn followed God’s path to Florida in 2022 and officially planted roots in March 2023 to lead Dewey World Recovery Community into its next chapter.

Shawn and his wife, Doreen, share a blended family of five children and several grandchildren. In 2020, they experienced the heartbreaking loss of their 16-year-old son to fentanyl poisoning. That loss deepened Shawn’s commitment to creating a place where every individual—regardless of their struggles—can find acceptance, support, and a chance to rebuild.

With compassion and faith at the center of his work, Shawn is devoted to building a community where everyone is truly welcome, and where recovery means more than sobriety—it means belonging, growth, and hope for the future.

I come from a long line of alcoholics and addicts, and I was not immune to the struggles that came with it. My journey has been one of both hardship and healing, and through God’s grace and the power of recovery, I’ve been able to turn pain into purpose.

In 2012, I married my husband Shawn, and together we have built a beautiful blended family of five children and four grandchildren. In May 2020, our family experienced the devastating loss of our 16-year-old son to fentanyl poisoning. This tragedy shook my world and nearly pulled me back into old patterns, but it also fueled my commitment to creating a safe and supportive place where others would not have to face these battles alone.

Today, as Chief Operations Officer and Vice President of Dewey World Recovery Community, Inc., I dedicate my life to helping individuals and families rebuild, heal, and thrive. My role allows me to walk alongside participants with compassion, accountability, and hope, ensuring they are equipped with the tools, resources, and encouragement they need to move forward.

Dewey World is more than a program—it’s a family, a home, and a pathway “Reaching Beyond Sobriety.” My deepest prayer is that everyone who steps through our doors finds not only recovery, but also the freedom to live a life filled with dignity, joy, and purpose.

Zak is 16 years old and already stepping into a leadership role at Dewey World Recovery Community. Losing his 16-year-old brother to fentanyl poisoning when he was just 10 shaped his heart and his mission: to help other young people see that there is hope, there are options, and they are not alone.

Known for his kindness, patience, and understanding, Zak is passionate about breaking the stigma around addiction and mental health. He wants to inspire a generation of strength—showing youth that recovery, resilience, and a bright future are possible.

Working alongside his parents, Shawn and Doreen Marcum, Zak is proof that even young voices can make a difference. He is committed to creating a community where every young person feels supported, valued, and empowered to choose a better path in life.