Joshua Andersen

Joshua Andersen

Joshua Andersen grew up in Davis County, surrounded by supportive parents who provided him
with every opportunity to succeed. As an honor roll student and an all-state football player, he
seemed destined for greatness.

However, he faced challenges with alcohol that led to significant hardships. His struggle with
alcoholism caused him to lose scholarship opportunities, pulling him into a cycle of mediocrity.
Though he achieved some professional success, it only offered fleeting fulfillment.

As time went on, Joshua began experimenting with harder drugs while trying to maintain his job
and family life. After experiencing personal losses, his situation deteriorated from manageable
to devastating.

On August 25, 2012, he welcomed a son and aspired to be the kind of father his own dad had
been. Despite his best efforts, addiction hindered his ability to fulfill that role. He briefly found
recovery but relapsed, leading to an ongoing battle that culminated in a grand mal seizure and a
hospital stay.

Realizing he needed to change to save his family and himself, Joshua chose to enter treatment.
At Odyssey House, he received the support he needed to live a life of value. He learned the
importance of focusing on others and discovered his capacity to overcome challenges. After five
months there, he established a strong foundation for a brighter future.

In January 2024, Joshua joined Red Barn Chicken, initially seeking a community of like-minded
individuals. To his delight, he found much more. He worked his way up to management,
continuing to grow professionally while focusing on his recovery. Red Barn Chicken has become
a place where he not only survives but thrives.

Today, Joshua is a devoted father, son, brother, and friend—roles he values above all else.