Evan Coggins,

Refresh Experience Coordinator

Evan is a Peer Support Specialist and has come through the trial of addiction.  He has a love for the Jesus and for others that is contagious.  We are thrilled to have him join Elsewhere Ministries, Inc. 

I could tell you a million different stories, or I could  ...

tell you the same story a million different ways!

I could tell you for hours the horrible things I’ve been through and situations I’ve put myself in.

I’m Evan Coggins, and by God’s grace I'm here and happy to tell you my story.  Ten years off and on I was addicted to pain pills.  So many years I was lost and doubted myself and asked, “Why me?” Because, let’s be honest, who wants to be addicted to pain pills to the point where they need and want it every day, waking up wondering where will I get my next high. 

November 10th, 2017, I took my life back.

Finally I stopped, sucked up my pride, and told my family I needed help!  Of course, they already knew.  After going to a rehab that was basically a work camp because I didn’t have special insurance to cover it, or $30,000, I knew the system was broken.  I came back to my hometown early from that place I called Hell, and I knew I needed more help to stay healthy.  The answer lies in figuring out the root cause of why I needed to get high.  My counselor helped me do just that.  At 6 years old I was sexually abused by a babysitter many times.  All those years I was trying to forget what was done to me as a child.  

This was the second time I got clean, and the first time didn’t stick because I never got to the bottom of why I was doing drugs, and I thought I could do it alone. 

I was so wrong thinking I could. 

Three years later after making that change in my life  (December 22, 2020) on my way to work, the LORD spoke to me in an audible voice, and told me, “It’s time for you to help others with addiction.”  He then put it on my heart to ask for help for me in order to do what needs to be done helping others stay clean.  Several months and many prayers later, a woman from my church gave me a number to call about taking peer support classes.  They have paid for all the classes and everything.  Upon completion of the classes what a blessing and opportunity it has been to work with men and help guide them to what will be a fulfilling life.  

Here at Elsewhere Ministries we want to be that light and help you live  your life healthy, happy and to your best ability.  I will work with you one on one to better understand you as a person, and help you grow in your walk with Christ.  At the end of the day, He is your rock and your constant help.   

Evan