In this week's episode, we connect with Dr. Masica Jordan-Alston of Jordan Peer Recovery.  Dr. Jordan-Alston and her team have worked systematically to create change through diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility for all, starting with peer recovery training and certification in every US state and internationally.  She also has some powerful stories to share.  

• Gaps in inclusion both in research and human services: Lack of cultural diversity in delivering services while neglecting marginalized groups (LGBTQIA, black indigenous people of color, and people incarcerated)
• Peer support is growing and expanding, with a focus on connecting individuals with similar experiences and creating systems of support within communities.
• Pay it forward: Masica shares her personal experience with diabetes, including diagnosis and treatment, and how she overcame the initial shock and fear to live a full life. Much later in life she connects with a young girl at the beach who is also living with diabetes, and offers words of encouragement and support, highlighting the importance of sharing experiences and empowering others in recovery.
• Culturally responsive practices in human services: avoid assumptions and ask individuals what works best for them.
•  Organizations should prioritize setting up internal peer groups to foster better marketing exposure, customer service experiences, and community engagement.
• Grief and loss with a personal story:  Masica shares her personal journey with grief and loss, including the death of her father, grandmother, godmother, and brother, and how she turned her lived experience into a resource for others. This work aims to provide a safe space for people to process their emotions and find support through her lived experiences with grief and through the experience of others 

Link to Dr. Alston's Bio and Work
https://jordanpeerrecovery.com
https://www.griefandlosscentersofamerica.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-masica-jordan-alston-lcpc-cprs-a5610b36/

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Music and Audio Production by Katie Hare.
https://www.hare.works