The Working Life On the Job: Peer Advocate

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Tue, December 09, 2008

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For this "On the Job: Peer Advocate" entry, I interviewed someone who works at Baltic Street AEH, Inc., a 95-percent peer run non-profit agency that provides advocacy, employment and housing for people with mental illnesses. Her experiences could inspire you to consider this field. A peer advocate ...

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David Robbins

12/ 9/08 11:33am

I've wondered for a few months this year if I had what it taked to be an advocate. I've learned over this year that my willingness to reach out and help is a driving force. I talked to a rehab counselor about becoming a advocate or counselor. The one thing that stops me is my insurance. I get good benefits from my pension and worry if I go back to work I will lose it.

I sometimes think I missed my calling. I also think I can achieve it. (that sounds like a good idea for a sharepost).

Dave

P.S. Christina I appreciate the comments to my shareposts. Do not worry I will continue to write shareposts. It's staggering to know that millions read the shareposts here. I hope you feel better too! Dave

Don Fraser

12/ 9/08 2:19pm

Hi Chris:

At timely message for me is this posting. My worker has suggested that I volunteer as a peer advocate in our last visit 3 weeks ago. We discussed options and the advocacy appears to be a hands -on in the home kind. These are people who may already have housing and disability set up for them(this would be the job of the Mental Health Worker) and need a hand with daily living. We discussed medication reminders, coffee outings and home maintenance, to name a few.

I think I'll go for it. Volunteer work looks good on a resume and I think I have something to offer if my own health isn't an issue.

Thanks

Don

Christina Bruni

12/ 9/08 5:17pm

Hi Don,

Go for it!

That sounds like a good idea.

Cheers,

Christina