Roanoke Chowan Community Health Center congratulates the graduates of its Peer Support Specialist Training Program.

From (Top) right to left: Ebony Brown , Derick Fields, Chiquita Collins , Quenton Credle, Holly Everette, William Goode. Middle row: Heidi Long, Kate White, Melissa Rose, Tyeasia Dorsey. Bottom row: Carrie Garcia, Charlyne Boyette

RCCHC hosted sessions of the Take Your Heart To Work Training, part of North Carolina’s Certified Peer Support Specialist Program. The program is an initiative of the NC Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Use Services. "This was a wonderful training that allows participants to learn leadership skills that will help them in supporting peers on their journey to recovery," said Chaquella Daughtry, Behavioral Health Director at RCCHC.

Community members who signed up went through 40 hours of training. The program empowers people in Recovery to become mutually supportive with their peers in making informed choices and moving toward the life they want and deserve, rather than relying on impersonal systems. According to program literature, “Peer Support is built on the three key principles of respect, shared responsibility, and the mutual agreement of what is helpful.” NCPSS helps prepare peer specialists for employment in agencies that serve those experiencing behavioral health and addiction issues.

“It was an honor to host PSS Training for this incredible group that defines compassion, selflessness, and dedication. Our community is blessed to have these individuals supporting their peers on their road to recovery and wellness,” said Michelle Lewis, Population Health Director at RCCHC.