Born and raised in Norristown, Pennsylvania, Joseph Prete has always been drawn to discipline, leadership, and service.
He was active in football, wrestling, and Boy Scouts before enlisting in the Army at 18. Over nearly a decade as an infantry squad leader, he led junior enlisted soldiers on multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan while attending advanced leadership schools. In the final four years of his military career, he served in Washington, D.C., where he took part in thousands of Army funerals at Arlington National Cemetery and ceremonies at the Pentagon, including President Obama’s second inauguration.
After transitioning out of the Army, Joseph faced his own challenges adjusting to civilian life and came to terms with his struggle with alcoholism. Seeking treatment and embracing a spiritual solution, he found a renewed sense of purpose in sobriety. Since 2018, he has been dedicated to the recovery field, helping others navigate their own journeys to healing. As Arch to Freedom’s Director of Operations and Logistics, Joseph ensures that every aspect of the program runs smoothly—handling operations, maintenance, repairs, and supplies—all while remaining directly involved in client care. His commitment to the residents and behind-the-scenes dedication make him an invaluable part of the Arch to Freedom team and the community.