- Peers certified in Washington: 6,700
- Peers trained in Washington: 6,745
The second week of March 2023 marks a historical first for HCA and the peer-run training organizations. Thirteen people who are serving varied sentences at Mission Creek Correctional Facility were able to take and complete the certified peer counselor (CPC) training course.
The individuals who attended the training were profoundly moved:
“I have been to many CPC trainings and have been witness to seeing that special sparkle in people eyes when they realize that their personal lived experience is a valuable and powerful tool that can be used to inspire hope. Watching these incredible women realize their power, will forever be in my heart. Next stop…. Walla Walla Penitentiary.” – Maureen “Mo” Bailey, HCA
“I wasn’t surprised by the attendees' ability to grasp the concept of peer support; what really heartened me was their willingness to be vulnerable with each other, with us and create brave spaces to grow and learn. This is just the beginning! What a beautiful opportunity. We are so full of gratitude that the Department of Corrections were willing to work with HCA's Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery in partnership with Peer Washington!” – Amanda Polley, HCA
“I am grateful for all that I have learned and am learning under the umbrella of peer support. I was able to share this wisdom with some fabulous women at Mission Creek who were so open and receptive to peer support, our values, and our practices. It was so inspiring to see them apply peer support in real time to real situations happening while they were also training. They did a fantastic job!” - Annette Jones, Jones Community Solutions
"Training at Mission Creek was the highlight of my year! I love learning with people who are so passionate about recovery and peer support. I can't wait to see what these amazing women will do with their new tools!" - Ann Rider, Whole Human Consulting
“I was allowed to share space with a room full of resilient, empowered, intelligent beautiful peers who have the ability and strengths to achieve and move forward on their healthy journeys in this life. BLESSED." - Prima Perez, Peer Workforce Development
“This training was full of energetic, resilient ladies showing their courage to step into the space to make a difference at how they will support change in their prospective communities.” - LaTonya Rogers, King County
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