About the Founders

The Orchard House was created by James Duhamel and Jess Howell, a local Portland couple with a strong desire to serve the local recovery community and a shared commitment to giving back. Having witnessed both the challenges and the transformative power of recovery firsthand, James and Jess felt called to create a safe, stable, and compassionate home for individuals working to rebuild their lives.  

Their vision grew from a simple but powerful belief: everyone deserves a supportive environment where they can heal, grow, and rediscover hope. With this mission in mind, they established The Orchard House as a recovery residence grounded in dignity, accountability, community, and genuine care for every person who walks through its doors.

James and Jess bring together years of personal experience, community involvement, and a heartfelt desire to serve others. Their work reflects their belief that recovery is not only possible, but sustainable when people are given the right tools, a stable home, and a community that believes in them.

Through The Orchard House, they aim to help individuals in recovery build strong foundations, reclaim their independence, and thrive in their next chapter of life—one resident, one day, and one success at a time.