The People We Serve

As a person in recovery, I realize my mind is not always my friend — I still struggle with making healthy choices. Getting involved and becoming a homeless case manager and certified peer specialist saved my life. Now, I use my lived experience to help others on their road to recovery.” — Kenneth Biggs Employment Readiness Specialist

Early Intervention (EI) services helped my sons when they were infants — now Intellectual disAbility Services continues to support them. They started their own business that gives back to the community. The same person who worked with them during EI still works with them now, and they even remember the stories she used to tell them. It changed their lives — and mine.” — Susanne Tuckerman Parent

I never thought in a million years that I’d go from trying to destroy my life to now being part of a movement and a system that helps people”. — Tylon Bridges Certified Peer Specialist, Merakey, USA

My journey to recovery began 24 years ago in a treatment center. The 12-step program, volunteering, and the Certified Peer Specialist Training helped me understand mental health and break the barriers of stigma. For me, the best way to help others is to treat people with dignity, be culturally competent, and practice self-care. Being openminded and treating people with dignity will help reduce stigma.” — Guadalupe Santos Certified Peer Specialist