In this episode of This is Beacon, hosts Reuben and Brandon engage in a deep and insightful conversation with Shandi Speller, a seasoned family peer advocate with CoveCare Center for over eight years. Shandi shares her journey from being a classroom teacher in the South Bronx to becoming a family peer advocate. She discusses the importance of addressing children's behavioral issues by involving the entire family, the role of community resources like public libraries and recreation departments, and the necessity of building robust support systems for effective advocacy. Shandi also emphasizes the critical need for parental involvement in special education and the benefits of persistence in navigating available services. Her inspiring stories and valuable advice shed light on how communities can come together to support the mental health and well-being of families.

00:00 Introduction and Hosts

00:43 Meet Shandi Speller: Family Peer Advocate

01:02 Shandi’s Journey to Advocacy

04:21 Hobbies and Personal Interests

10:47 Building a Village: The Importance of Community

14:31 Challenges and Strategies in Family Support

22:39 Advocating for Special Education

34:09 Success Stories and Community Impact

40:20 Teaching Life Skills and Community Engagement

42:29 The Importance of Community Centers

45:02 Supporting Families and Youth

47:46 Community Resources and Services

53:22 Challenges and Success Stories

55:43 The Role of Empathy and Advocacy

58:53 Final Thoughts and Reflections