Emilio Castillo, the bandleader of the legendary soul group Tower of Power, is known for his musical talent, leadership and personal resilience. Over a career that spans more than five decades, Castillo has led the band with a distinct blend of saxophone mastery, songwriting and soulful vocals.

Yet, his story extends far beyond the stage. For Castillo, a turning point came in 1988 when he found sobriety after years of battling addiction. Since then, he has dedicated much of his life to faith, family and philanthropy. One of his most meaningful partnerships has been his recent relationship with Mission of Mercy Arizona (MOM).

The story of Castillo’s connection to MOM begins with a simple email sent by MOM AZ Medical Director Dr. Brad Smith, who is a Tower of Power fan.

A Divine Encounter

“I got an email from Dr. Brad Smith through my website,” Castillo recalls. At first, he was skeptical. “I don’t do social media, so I was curious how he found me. But he mentioned he was a Christian and wanted to tell me about an organization that helped people with medical issues at no cost.”

Castillo was intrigued. His initial thought was that it would be just another charity asking for donations. “I thought I’d visit, say hello, maybe send them some money, and that would be it,” he admits. However, when he stepped into the MOM clinic for the first time, he was impressed.

Dr. Smith gave Castillo a tour of the North Phoenix Baptist clinic site. “I couldn’t believe it,” Castillo says. “There were dozens of doctors and nurses, all treating people for free. And they had medications — blood pressure medicine, diabetes medicine — everything was provided at no charge.”

The operation was eye-opening for Castillo who has since built a solid friendship with Dr. Smith. “I didn’t believe something like this existed,” he admits. “And then he told me that they have six clinic locations around the Valley, and they go to each one, one day at a time. I was floored. They’re really making a difference.”

A Mission That Resonates with Faith

What drew Castillo to MOM was not just the charity’s commitment to providing free medical care, but its alignment with his own faith values. As a Christian, Castillo sees the organization’s work as a direct reflection of biblical teachings. “The Bible says to love your neighbor as yourself,” he notes. “That’s exactly what Mission of Mercy is doing — helping people in need without expecting anything in return.”

Castillo’s personal faith journey has played a pivotal role in his life, especially in overcoming addiction. He shares how he struggled with his spirituality in his early years of sobriety, but eventually came to a profound realization. “For 16 years, I resisted Jesus,” he reflects. “I was trying to avoid the truth, but eventually, I realized that knowing God means knowing Jesus. That moment of clarity changed everything for me.”

When he first visited MOM, Castillo was impressed not just by the medical care, but by the organization’s approach. “They’re not preaching,” he says. “But if someone asks, they’re happy to talk about their faith. And that’s exactly how I believe we should approach helping others.”

Helping Others, One Donation at a Time

Since that first visit, Castillo has become a vocal advocate for MOM. He has shared the organization’s work with his friends and fans, encouraging them to support its mission. “I’ve sent several people to them,” he says. “It’s one of the best things I’ve ever been a part of.”

For Castillo, one of the most important ways people can support MOM is through donations. “Even small donations make a huge difference,” he emphasizes. “Whether it’s $10 or $100, every little bit helps doctors and nurses provide care to those who need it the most.”

He encourages those who might not have money to spare to consider other forms of help. “You can volunteer your time, spread the word, or even offer resources. The important thing is to get involved,” he says. “Because the work Mission of Mercy does is essential, and it’s the kind of work that reflects the heart of God.”

Mission of Mercy’s Impact on the Community

MOM’s work is not only about providing free medical care — it’s about restoring hope to people who are often overlooked by the healthcare system. The organization serves uninsured and underinsured individuals, many of whom have no other place to turn for care. As Dr. Smith explains, “We believe that every person deserves dignity and access to healthcare, regardless of their financial situation.”

Castillo has seen firsthand how MOM’s services impact lives. “They’re doing something truly special,” he says. “They’re providing more than just medical care — they’re giving people the dignity and support they need to get back on their feet.”

In addition to medical care, the organization’s volunteers often offer emotional and spiritual support, helping patients not only with their physical health but also with their overall well-being. “It’s about restoring people’s lives, not just their health,” Castillo adds. “That’s the kind of work that stays with you.”

A Lasting Partnership

Castillo’s involvement with MOM is more than just a one-time donation or a passing interest. It’s a partnership rooted in shared values of compassion, service and faith. “I’m proud to support Mission of Mercy, and I encourage everyone I can to get involved,” he says. “What they’re doing is truly important. They’re living out what Jesus said — helping those in need.”

Through his music, his recovery, and his partnership with MOM, Emilio Castillo continues to inspire and uplift others — proving that no matter where you start, it’s never too late to make a difference.