I'm on the advisory board for a local program that helps pair no-cost adopted animals - usually cats and dogs - from the TAHS with people who endure chronic mental health issues. Pets + mental health. Two touchstones of mine. 

HARP. Hope and Recovery Pets program. LIKE IT!

UT's Dr. Janet Hoy-Gerlach is one of the founders of the program. 

Tuesday, I joined my friends from NAMI at the Ability Center for a HARP presentation by Dr. Janet  and Jenny Barlos. Of course I know what HARP is but it was intriguing to see it from the front end and how it's offered to people who have no idea what is it, or what it does. 

This podcast episode was on the old hosting site, Audioboom. Since it's fresh in my mind I wanted to make sure it was on your radar. Janet and Jenny would be able to do a presentation for you, or moreso, your workplace if interested. If you know someone who might fit the criteria for HARP - chronic mental health issue, stable housing, Medicaid eligible and at risk for deep isolation - I can make sure you or someone you know gets an application. 

Promedica is also a major partner in this endeavor. WATCH HERE. 

Thank you as always for listening, but moreso, supporting my mental health advocacy!

NOTE - adult language in this episode. Actually, in most. But this is for those new to these podcasts!