Mission Addiction is a Christian, nonprofit organization based in Dayton, Ohio, with a nationwide reach.

The birth of this mission came from our founder’s life-changing volunteering experience at church and the fact that Dayton was considered the worst city in the country for the heroin/opioid crisis. “I felt like God was calling me to ‘bottle’ that
rewarding volunteer feeling and build a team who would serve others.
The name ‘Mission Addiction’ came from God, the day before our kickoff meeting.” 

We started off with a simple support group and prayer team in 2017. From the start, people told us, “Your approach would help ANYONE – not just people struggling with addiction.” We’ve added several services since then and we have a vision for more.
Building and training a large volunteer workforce is still important to our mission. 
Part of our plan is for participants to gain value and purpose by serving others.
It’s a Mission Addiction!

Get t0
know
our
awesome
TEAM!

EDWARD LIVESAY
Founder, Executive Director

Edward is a former business consultant and Six Sigma Master Black Belt who believes there is no such thing as an unsolvable problem. He and his consulting team researched addiction and mental health issues in Dayton and saw common root causes as well as solutions. In parallel, he increasingly felt the rewards of serving through teaching in children’s ministry, nonprofit work, coaching and mentoring, and then, leading this mission. “God took our problem-solving focus and turned it into a ministry that now serves the whole person and the whole family in so many different ways. Our growing team of nationwide volunteers keeps helping us create a unique blend of services in a unique spiritual community. It’s extremely rewarding to witness individuals, couples and families making good progress on multiple levels! MY life has been forever blessed, too!”
Edward@Mission-Addiction.org

XENIA HENDLEY
Vice President, HR

"I started as an MSW student intern in an online program at Andrews University. My greatest desire is to serve others and be a blessing to someone in need. MA is growing me spiritually and mentally. I love that this organization is meeting people where they are and helping people through their darkest moments. I know that God has placed me here for 'such a time as this' and I look forward to seeing where God is going to take this organization in the future."
Xenia@Mission-Addiction.org

DAVE ROALEF
President, Interim Treasurer

Dave’s career in information technology leadership and strategy has spanned 40 years. During that time, Dave has also been a volunteer in many youth development activities including sports, Christian education, finance, and advanced math. Dave’s interest in mental health and addiction stems from the loss of his oldest son through bi-polar disorder and subsequent addiction. “I’ve served since the beginning in 2017 and always enjoy seeing the progress from someone’s first encounter until now.”
Dave@Mission-Addiction.org

Latoya Aaron
Secretary, Digital Media

I’m passionate about bringing hope and transformation to those on their healing journey. With a background in marketing, design, and social media strategy, I love using creativity and organization to support Mission Addiction’s vision. My goal is to foster meaningful connections and inspire others through faith, community, and empowerment. I’m honored to be part of this mission and excited to make a lasting impact.
Latoya@Mission-Addiction.org

Diviyashree Kasiviswanathan
Youth Representative

I’m an undergrad student at the U. of Cincinnati College of Medicine, aspiring to be a psychiatrist. I started volunteering at MA in 2022 as a graphic designer and social media analyst. I transitioned to coaching and saw the powerful impact that our programs have on struggling individuals. MA provides a holistic approach, integrating spirituality, counseling, and community engagement. I accepted my role as a board member because of MA’s strong emphasis on creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment, where people can explore their potential and redefine their lives. I am looking forward to continued learning and growth!
kasivide@mail.uc.edu

ANGELA THOMAS
eLearning

Helping others learn and grow has always been close to my heart. After 15 years of teaching orchestra, my desire to make a broader impact inspired my shift into instructional design and workforce development. I now enjoy mentoring young adults starting their careers in manufacturing. The work of Mission Addiction aligns with my values of faith, service, and uplifting others. I’m grateful to be a part of this organization, and I’m excited to contribute as part of the eLearning team to support others on their healing journey.

The following was inspired by student volunteers:

2025 Mission Addiction Team Picture