ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Leaders at the House of Mercy in downtown Rochester are taking significant steps toward fostering a more inclusive and supportive community through a new mental health training program.
Thanks to a federal grant of $265,000, the House of Mercy will train approximately 30 new peer advocates. One of the first participants in this initiative is Flora Jones, who shared her transformative experience during a public event.
“This program is for me and so many others like me, who want to make a difference and who understand life isn’t always so simple,” said Jones. She highlighted how becoming a peer advocate helped her overcome generational trauma and strive for a balanced life. “Balance is the bridge between you and life. This is the bridge I’m hoping to build for myself in my journey,” she added.
The training focuses on empowering Black, Indigenous, and people of color to become peer advocates specializing in mental health and substance abuse issues. Dr. Tammy Butler, Executive Director of the House of Mercy, emphasized the critical role these advocates play in building a more inclusive community. “This means building a support system that is really reflective of the community it serves, fostering trust and understanding,” said Dr. Butler.
Once certified, peer advocates will have the opportunity to work in community agencies, emergency rooms, and homeless shelters, including the House of Mercy. The program also offers comprehensive support services to participants, including job skills training, resume writing, interview preparation, and other wraparound services.
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