If I could afford it, I'd donate np. If you lived closer, I'd want a job there. I know what you mean about connecting. And imo, it takes someone who's been through it to 'teach' the program / act of recovery in general, to others. My dream job has always been to work closely with addicts in recovery. But you can't really do such a thing unless you have a degree. Plus in all honesty, I'm not completely sober lol.
You will probably receive a lot of criticism. This will come in the way of getting donations and finding sponsors or what not. Are you limiting your sober house to alcoholics only or will it be available to all who are recovering from any sort of substance? How much are you charging / week? ---Considering many addicts in recovery are broke, etc. You're essentially taking people's lives in your own hands. What if someone relapses and od's there? I dunno - I think it's fantastic and I would love to be a part of what you're doing but I'm not sure what to suggest to you regarding getting started financially.
I'll just wish you luck and would love it if you used the thread to post updates.
Oh, and one measly suggestion would be to have a 'donate' option on your website, linking to PayPal. But you won't get thousands. Maybe not even hundreds starting out. Dunno.