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HISTORY
RISE UP Recovery began when its founders, Tiffany and her husband Chad, recognized significant gaps in their community's recovery system. They saw a lack of support both for individuals seeking recovery services and for those working to sustain their progress after treatment. As people in long-term recovery themselves—with over 30 years of collective experience—they deeply understand the challenges of this journey.
Rooted in their faith, Tiffany and Chad believe in “doing life” with those recovering from substance use disorders, walking alongside them through what can be a lonely, scary, and difficult road. Along their own recovery journey, they discovered the abundant life first found in Christ and then in living free from substance use.
RISE UP Recovery is founded on Christian principles and is committed to decreasing stigma—within the community, families, and personal lives—while promoting long-term recovery. Their mission is to provide support, hope, and respect to every recoveree, empowering them to heal, find freedom, and ultimately give back by sharing their own stories of hope and transformation. Recovery is possible, and RISE UP Recovery is here to make it a reality.
A Legacy of Service and Generosity: Honoring Dean W. Markuson’s Impact on Rise Up Recovery
At Rise Up Recovery, our journey has been shaped not only by the courage and resilience of those we serve but also by the selfless generosity of community champions who’ve stood beside us. One such remarkable individual was Dean W. Markuson — a beloved veteran, community leader, and faithful supporter whose legacy continues to shape our work and our home.
A Life of Dedicated Service
Dean W. Markuson (December 11, 1950 – December 2, 2022) devoted his life to serving others. A United States Army veteran, he proudly served for 20 years and retired as a First Sergeant, with tours in Vietnam, Germany, and Korea. His commitment to service extended far beyond military life — from working in public service roles to advocating for veterans through organizations like the VFW, American Legion, and Disabled American Veterans.
In 2011, Dean received the Spirit of Hastings Award in recognition of his deep dedication to the community — a fitting testament to a man whose heart was always in service to others.
A Gift That Became Our Home
A defining moment in the history of Rise Up Recovery came when Dean and his wife Shirley Markuson donated the building at 507 Vermillion Street in Hastings to our organization. This generous gift became the physical space where we could build community, offer support, and welcome people from all walks of life seeking hope and healing.
This space is more than a building — it is The Semper Fidelis Community Center.
Why “Semper Fidelis”?
The name Semper Fidelis is a Latin phrase meaning “Always Faithful.” Used historically as a motto by military units and others committed to loyalty and steadfastness, the phrase perfectly reflects the spirit we strive for at Rise Up Recovery — being faithfully present with one another through every stage of the recovery journey.
At the Semper Fidelis Community Center, individuals find:
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A safe, welcoming place to grow in recovery.
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A coffee bar, workspace, and recovery resources.
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Friendly support from staff and peers with lived experience.
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Daily and evening groups that foster connection, encouragement, and community.
This name isn’t just symbolic — it stands for our commitment to show up for one another, every day and through every challenge.
Remembering His Legacy
Dean didn’t just serve his country — he served his community with compassion and steadfast commitment. His heart for others and his belief in the power of generosity continue to impact lives every day through the work of Rise Up Recovery.
While Dean passed away in December 2022, his legacy lives on every time someone walks through our doors seeking help, support, or simply a listening ear. His contribution has become a foundational part of our ministry and mission — redeeming lives and restoring dignity through faith, connection, and community support.
A Lasting Impact
We are deeply grateful for Dean and Shirley’s vision and generosity. Their belief in our mission has helped create a place where lives are transformed and dignity is restored.
As we continue our work, we honor Dean’s life and legacy by remaining always faithful to the individuals and families we serve — echoing the meaning of Semper Fidelis in everything we do.