October 19th is Global Peer Support Celebration Day. At WJCS, our Peer Specialists play an important role in aiding the recovery of individuals from mental illness and/or substance use. Peer Specialists walk hand in hand with our clients from the perspective of a “shared experience.” The Peer Specialist is in a unique position to truly understand what it is like for someone who struggles with challenges related to mental illness and/or substance use. Our WJCS Peer Specialists assist individuals by using the skills they have learned, the connections they have made, and the resources they know from first-hand experience. In addition, the Peer Specialists are available to assist clients and the other team members in collaborating around concrete needs, like affordable housing, child care, transportation, education and employment services, substance use support, and linkage to community resources.
The Peer Specialists meet individuals where they are at in their journey and provide unconditional support to individuals in the clinic setting, in the community, and in their homes, and are often accompanying individuals to appointments to provide companionship, support, and advocacy. Peer Specialists are proof that recovery is possible and that individuals living with challenges related to mental health and substance use can lead a full and meaningful life.
Thank you to all of our Peer Support Specialists at WJCS!
Solange Morel, began 7/6/2021
Abby Plotka, began 11/14/2005
Benita Taylor, began 4/6/2020
Wilhelminia Harris, began 1/5/2015
Shana Henry, began 7/10/2023
Francesca Pou, began 12/12/2022
Kyle Lia, began 6/6/2022
Dan Seagren, began 6/6/2022
Justina Kenyon, began 7/11/2023
Jimmy Walsh, began 5/30/2023
Glenda Santos, began 12/12/2022
