Howard Eley: A Legacy of Transformation and Hope

Born on February 4, 1939, in Detroit, Michigan, Howard Eley is a living testament to the power of redemption, resilience, and purpose. From the ages of 17 to 23, Howard proudly served his country in the United States Navy. However, upon returning to civilian life, he faced the difficult realities of reintegration. What began as experimentation soon evolved into years of struggle with drugs, alcohol, and street life—an existence that placed him on a path of self-destruction by his early twenties.

Everything changed on December 8, 1981. In a moment of deep desperation and awakening, Howard made the courageous decision to turn his life around. He began attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, where he found not only recovery but a renewed sense of direction and divine purpose. From that point forward, he dedicated himself to living a life of integrity, service, and hope—investing his energy and creativity into building a better future for America’s youth.

Howard became deeply involved in community activism, particularly in South Central Los Angeles, where his compassion and commitment have inspired countless lives. Recognizing the importance of early prevention and positive role models, he began designing powerful public service billboards with messages such as “Smart Kids Say No Thanks—Smart Kids Make Smart Choices.” These campaigns resonated deeply within local neighborhoods, reducing substance abuse and transforming communities through awareness, mentorship, and empowerment.

For over four decades, Howard’s unwavering dedication has yielded tangible change—helping to reduce drug and alcohol use, curbing related violence, and offering countless children from all socio-economic backgrounds a chance at a brighter future.

His contributions include:

Co-Founder, Cocaine Anonymous, South Central Los Angeles (1983–Present)
Collaborator, First Lady Nancy Reagan’s “Just Say No” Campaign, D.A.R.E. Program (Los Angeles Unified School District), and SANE (Substance Abuse Narcotic Education) with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (1983–1988)
Participant, Los Angeles Job Corps Drug-Awareness Program (1987–1990)
Contributor, Inglewood Unified School District Drug-Free Zone Initiative (1989–1993)
Planning Aftercare Director, United Way, South Central Los Angeles (1989–1993)
Supporter, Drug-Free World: The Truth About Drugs (2022)

Now celebrating over 43 years of sobriety, Howard Eley stands as a pillar of integrity and transformation—living proof that one individual’s decision to change can ignite a ripple effect that transforms families, neighborhoods, and generations. His life continues to inspire, reminding us all that it’s never too late to rewrite our story and to serve others with purpose and heart.