The Council of Southeast Pennsylvania Presents Peer-to-Peer Recovery Mentor Training

Philadelphia, Pa., May 10, 2016 – The Council of Southeast Pennsylvania (The Council) is offering a free two-day, peer-to-peer recovery mentor training on Friday, May 20, and Saturday, May 21, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day at Arch Building, Arch Auditorium 208, 3601 Locust Walk, Philadelphia, Pa. 19104.

This program, part of The Council’s year-long “Thriving in Recovery” campaign, teaches participants how to mentor male youth and young adults of color who have a history of substance use disorders. With this course, The Council, PRO-ACT (Pennsylvania Recovery Organization – Achieving Community Together), and SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) seek to reach individuals through young adult peer recovery mentors who can work with and educate youth of color.

SAMHSA’s Center for Substance Abuse Treatment reports that there is a need to reach out to youth and young adults who have been involved in the Juvenile Justice System or who are re-entering their communities from a juvenile justice institution. The goal of this training is to have young adults in recovery learn to become peer mentors and give back by sharing their experiences and teaching others their learned life skills. The Council’s program is consistent with the goals of President Obama's “My Brother’s Keeper” initiative that addresses persistent opportunity gaps faced by boys and young men of color and ensures that all young people can reach their full potential.

The “Thriving in Recovery” initiative continues with year-long activities and educational events to dispel myths associated with addiction and present options and hope for those seeking to access and sustain long-term recovery, at the same time it is raising funds to help broaden The Council’s programs, services, and outreach into the five counties making up the greater Philadelphia region.

If you are interested in becoming a peer mentor, or in learning more about the “Thriving In Recovery” campaign, you may visit www.councilsepa.org.

About the Council of Southeast Pennsylvania (The Council)

Forty years ago, a small group of volunteers began a grassroots effort to raise awareness of issues associated with alcoholism and other drug addictions and the importance of education and prevention. The spirit of this group was contagious and inspired significant growth in the organization that today helps more than 15,000 individuals annually. The Council has more than 60 professionals on staff and receives support from more than 400 volunteers. By continually working to achieve its mission, The Council is one of the most vital alcohol and other drug prevention and intervention agencies in the nation today.

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