Lynda Castiello

I’m a visionary founder and educator with 20+ years of experience building trauma-informed systems that empower underserved communities. From launching Desert Light House—a sober living home for men in Phoenix—to running a sustainable fashion business that reinvests in local resilience, I lead with empathy, strategy, and results.

My work spans education reform, recovery housing, youth mentorship, and economic justice. I specialize in coalition-building, branding, and operational design, with a track record of turning bold ideas into sustainable impact. Whether I’m mentoring teens through emotional crises or advocating for national policy change, I bring clarity, compassion, and practical solutions to every challenge.

Mission-driven educator, entrepreneur, and advocate with over 19 years of experience leading trauma-informed initiatives across education, recovery housing, and sustainable fashion. Founder of Desert Light House, a sober living home in Phoenix, and The Closet Comeback Co., a community-rooted fashion business. Proven track record in systems design, youth mentorship, and coalition-building for housing, employment, and education reform. Skilled in branding, business operations, and digital tools, with a deep commitment to equity, emotional intelligence, and practical problem-solving.

Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Business Education with 19+ years of professional development in trauma-informed care, financial literacy, and business operations. Specialized in art/design education, student advocacy, and career-connected learning. Ongoing training in recovery systems, coalition-building, and strategic reform equips me to lead initiatives at the intersection of education, equity, and economic empowerment.