Brandon and Pan 1 Year Later

A year ago, we shared the incredible story of Brandon and Pan, two men whose friendship blossomed through redemption, faith, and shared purpose. Their journey moved all of us, and today, we’re honored to share how far they’ve come since then.

When we last left their story, Brandon and Pan were rebuilding their lives after completing the Men of Valor program and joining Cul2vate’s Phase 2 training. Today, their roots have only grown deeper.

“If anything, [our friendship] has grown stronger,” Brandon says with a quiet confidence. “It’s growing stronger and getting better. We’re able to lean on each other even more from our own personal growth.”

The two now share a home together—something that symbolizes more than just shared walls. It’s a daily reminder of brotherhood. Pan reflects, his voice full of warmth:

“To be honest, our relationship is getting better and better every day. We live together now, doing our own thing, but our friendship just keeps growing. I’ve got a better relationship with him than I do with my blood family.”

After graduating from Phase 2, both Brandon and Pan joined Cul2vate’s full-time staff as Assistant Site Leaders—Brandon at Buxahatchee and Pan at Ellington. Once Cul2vators themselves, they now walk alongside new participants, teaching the skills, patience, and faith that helped transform their own lives.

Their desire to give back extends even further. Together, they serve as Head Servant Leaders at Men of Valor, returning to the very program that helped them heal.

“At first, I thought it was something crazy,” Pan laughs, “but Brandon talked me into it—and I’m glad he did! It’s helped me grow and helped me financially, too. He looks out for me.”

Brandon nods, “We work two nights a week with the guys—ministering to them, letting them know what worked for us and what didn’t. We just want to give back to the programs that gave us hope.”

Each man continues to flourish individually as well. Brandon is studying to become a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist—driven to help others overcome addiction and find purpose.

“I’ll be certified by the state to counsel men and women coming out of addiction,” he shares. “I want to sit down, listen, and help however I can based on what I’ve lived through.”

Pan, meanwhile, is embracing fatherhood in new and beautiful ways, seeing his children more often and growing in confidence as a dad.

“I’m just excited about where I’m at in life right now,” he says. “I’m so grateful to Cul2vate for giving me the opportunity to be part of the staff. That’s such a blessing for me.”

Their story is a living example of what happens when faith, opportunity, and friendship intertwine. What started as two men seeking a second chance has grown into a lifelong brotherhood—and a shared mission to help others find hope.

We have no doubt that the seeds of friendship Brandon and Pan planted will continue to grow for a lifetime.