04/09/2026
My name is Clinton Branch, and I was born and raised in Tacoma, Washington. My life journey has been shaped by both deep adversity and meaningful transformation. I spent over 30 years in active addiction and more than 20 years incarcerated. During that time, I was immersed in street life and gang affiliations, and I experienced the profound loss of many friends to violence and substance use.
On April 23, 2020, I lost someone very close to me to an overdose while they were in a cell. That moment became a turning point in my life. It forced me to confront the reality of where my path was leading and ultimately gave me a renewed sense of purpose.
While still incarcerated, I made a conscious decision to change. I committed myself to recovery and walked into a 12-step meeting, beginning a journey of healing and accountability. I pursued higher education and earned a degree in Business Management. I became actively involved in cultural committees, worked toward personal and spiritual growth, and dedicated myself to understanding the deeper roots of my experiences through intentional self-reflection.
Through this process, I not only rebuilt my life, but I discovered a passion for helping others do the same. I became a Community Healthcare Worker, using my lived experience to connect with and support individuals navigating addiction, incarceration, and reentry.
Today, I continue to walk in recovery with purpose and integrity. My goal is to use my story to inspire hope, promote healing, and serve as a bridge for those who feel unseen or unheard. I am committed to being part of the solution—both in my community and in the lives of those seeking a new path forward.
