Our Team
Lonnie VanMeter, DSW, LCSW, LSW
Board President, And Executive Director/CEO of Building Bridges to Family Recovery
Dr. Lonnie VanMeter is the Founder and Executive Director/CEO of Building Bridges to Family Recovery, a nonprofit rooted in the belief that healing from substance use disorder begins within the family. Lonnie brings both lived experience and decades of professional expertise to her work with individuals and families in Humboldt County.
She earned her Doctor of Social Work (DSW) from California Baptist University, specializing in substance use disorder recovery in rural communities, with a focus on family bonding as a key to long-term recovery. Lonnie also holds an MSW and BSW (with a minor in Native American Studies) from Cal Poly Humboldt, a public health certificate through UCSF and Cal Poly Humboldt, and multiple associate degrees from College of the Redwoods.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California and Licensed Social Worker in Hawaii, Lonnie has dedicated her career to serving Veterans and families facing addiction, trauma, and housing instability. Her mission is to interrupt cycles of intergenerational trauma, reduce ACEs, and strengthen families through connection, recovery, and long-term healing.
Above all, she is a wife of nearly 30 years, a mother, and a proud grandmother, committed to building a stronger, more connected Humboldt County.
Edward (Eddie) Castillo Sr. Treasurer Building Bridges to Family Recovery
Edward Castillo Sr. brings wisdom, humility, and a powerful testimony of transformation to his role at Building Bridges to Family Recovery. An Army veteran and retired professional from the cable and communications industry, Eddie also contributed his time and skills to Redwood National Parks, where he supported efforts to preserve the beauty and accessibility of one of Humboldt County’s most treasured landscapes. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Eddie is in long-term recovery from substance use and other addictions. He shares openly that his life was once chaotic and broken—until he encountered the love of God and found healing through recovery. Today, Eddie lives as a true new creation in recovery, committed to walking alongside others as they begin their own journey toward freedom and restoration. He serves as President of the Ezekiel’s Wheels Chapter of the Christian Motorcycle Association, leading with faith, integrity, and a deep love for community outreach. A gifted drummer and percussionist, Eddie uses music to inspire and connect—believing strongly in its ability to heal hearts and lift spirits. As Treasurer of Building Bridges to Family Recovery, Eddie offers both financial stewardship and spiritual encouragement. His life is a testament to the power of faith, recovery, and second chances—and he’s passionate about helping individuals and families experience the same life-changing grace.
Leticia Garcia
Vice President Building Bridges to Family Recovery
Leticia Garcia is a proud mom, wife, and lifelong member of the Humboldt County community. Her passion for helping others is deeply personal and rooted in her own family’s journey through the struggles of addiction. With multiple loved ones impacted by substance use, Leticia's hope is to be part of the change she wishes to see, not just for her family, but for the entire community.
Leticia’s dream is to one day welcome her big sister home and witness her find lasting recovery. That vision fuels her dedication to helping build a strong, supportive environment where healing is possible for all families.
A graduate of Alder Grove Charter School and former student at Academy of the Redwoods, Leticia went on to attend College of the Redwoods. She also brings valuable experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities; a role that reflects her lifelong commitment to empathy, care, and inclusion.
Leticia is guided by love for her family and a belief that recovery is not only possible, but contagious. Through her work with Building Bridges to Family Recovery, she hopes to help more families find the healing and connection that has changed the course of her own.
Sally Stewart ASW, MSW Board Secretary Building Bridges to Family Recovery
Sally has a Master of Social Work from Cal Poly Humboldt, bringing a strong background in clinical assessment, crisis intervention, and culturally responsive care. Her experience spans school settings, correctional facilities, and community-based programs, where she has supported youth, adults, and families navigating trauma, mental health challenges, and systemic barriers. She takes a strength-based, client-centered approach and values collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to provide effective, coordinated care. Her work is grounded in compassion, resilience, and a deep commitment to supporting individuals across diverse and high-need populations.
Steve Payton Board Member Building Bridges To Family Recovery
I moved to Humboldt County about 32 years ago, running from myself. I was a full blown crack addict When I got sick and tired of being sick and tired, I went into recovery mode. I spent 10-15years in AA &NA. I also went to Celebrate Recovery where I was a ministry leader. I am currently a business owner and a member of The knights of Columbus as well a member of the Christian Motorcyclist Association. Serving those in need. My life experiences allow me to relate to those who are struggling with addiction and mental health issues.
Ellie Payton Board Member Building Bridges to Family Recovery
I currently on my own business. I am also a member of Christian motorcycle association where I serve the community. I also volunteer at my church in several areas. I have lived in Eureka for the past 45 years. I am the mother of four children, and I am currently married to Steve Payton. I have been clean for the last 32 years of my life. I served and celebrate recovery as both a group leader and leader of the 12 step program. I’ve also taken celebrate recovery into the Humboldt County jail. I hope to be of help to my community wherever I can.
Sandy Keisner Board Member Building Bridges to family Recovery
Sandy Keisner is a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother in long-term recovery who brings lived experience and deep spiritual grounding to her work. She is committed to healing not only herself, but her family and community, working to break cycles of intergenerational trauma and addiction.
A proud member of the Bear River Band of the Rohnerville Rancheria, Sandy integrates cultural teachings into all she does. She facilitates Red Road recovery meetings at Hope Fellowship and in the Humboldt County Jail, and has supported similar work with the Chief Seattle Club, Recovery Café, Bear River Rancheria, and the Northern California Indian Development Council.
Sandy is actively collaborating with local tribal partners to expand healing opportunities focused on intergenerational trauma and family support. She has participated in sweat lodge ceremonies since 1992 and, since 2021, has led a women’s sweat lodge alongside her granddaughters.
Through her work with Building Bridges to Family Recovery, Sandy embodies resilience, cultural strength, and a deep belief in healing for individuals, families, and communities.