Registration for the Peer Recovery Support Summit was offered at no cost to all registrants, thanks to funding from the NJ Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services (NJDMHAS).
Thank You for Joining Us!
On September 25, 2024, NJPN held the 8th Annual NJPN Peer Summit, Stronger Together: Shared Learning and Building a Unified Future!
This was an exciting 1-day in-person event that featured keynote speakers, interactive workshops, and recovery-oriented activities, all brought together exclusively for those working in the peer recovery support services field. This year’s theme celebrated the power of collective knowledge and collaboration in creating innovative, inclusive, and effective support systems. The event highlighted the importance of our community coming together to share successes, learn from one another, and advance peer recovery support services for all.
Attendees gained valuable insights, inspiration, connections, and strategies for recovery, with topics ranging from diversity and equity to the latest in best practices.
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Photos From The Summit
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Speakers
Lavinia Adams
CPRS at Center for Great Expectations
Gianna Anselmo
CPRS at TCNJ
Heidi Baird
CPRS at the Southwest Council
David Bloxham
CPRS at Center for Prevention and Counseling
Dr. Orisha Bowers
Executive Director of Orixa Healing Art, Wellness and Spiritual Centre
Job Brown
CPRS at the Southwest Council
Gina Bucci
LCSW at RWJBH
Dr. Moniquea Clark
Founder and Lead Consultant at Agape Healing and Yoga Wellness
Charla Cousar
Harm Reduction Coordinator, Program Management Officer at NJ Department of Health (DOH)
Rolidel Czekajlo
LSW at Covenant House
Loresa Daniel
Wellness Support
Joshua Drake
Peer Recovery Specialist at the Southwest Council
Kyra Gil
LAC at Center for Great Expectations
Kim Govak
Program Manager, Faces & Voices of Recovery
Leah Guzman
Board Certified Art Therapist at Leah Guzman Studios
Lee McCully
Harm Reduction Coordinator at Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) Prevention Resource Network (PRN) Harm Reduction Center
Robert Mitten
CPRS at TCNJ
Emily Monks
Program Director at Prevention is Key
Tara Moreno-Wallen
Founder and Executive Director at Serenity House Communities
Brandy Mullin
Program Director, CPRS, MSW Candidate at Agape Counseling Services
Natasha Pennant
Wellness Support
Jillian Perez
Lead Peer Educator at TCNJ
Brian Radano
NCPRSS, Community Health Worker at RWJBH
Jon-Erik Randazzo
Peer Recovery Specialist at Prevention is Key
Kia Richardson
Wellness Support
Sam Rivera
Executive Director at OnPoint Overdose Prevention Center NYC
Dr. Anthony Salandy
Senior Development of Business Strategy at National Harm Reduction Coalition
Amanda Spruill
Peer Supervisor at Rutgers UBHC
Majorie Timmerman
CPRS at Center for Prevention and Counseling
Eric Van Eck
CPRS at TCNJ
Katie Walker
CPRS, RCPF at Center for Prevention and Counseling
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Agenda
Join us as we kick off the 2024 NJPN Peer Recovery Support Summit by highlighting our greatest strength — the power of unity and collaboration.
During this session, we will explore the pivotal role of understanding core competencies and peer perspectives in shaping policies, programs, and practices. These elements are crucial in our shared mission to serve our communities effectively.
By showcasing the state's efforts in supporting the peer workforce, attendees will gain insights into the transformative impact of these initiatives and reflect on the meaningful strides achieved in reducing barriers to care.
We invite you to embrace the sessions call to action: let us think deeply, share openly, and collaborate fiercely. By working together, we can leverage our collective knowledge and ensure those we serve receive nothing but the best possible support.
Kim Govak
Program Manager, Faces & Voices of Recovery
9:00am - 9:30am
Amphitheatre, 1st Floor
Welcome
Opening Remarks
Join us for an inspiring panel discussion highlighting the groundbreaking and creative work of national and state leaders in harm reduction and discover how they are transforming the landscape with innovative strategies and impactful initiatives.
Lee McCully
Harm Reduction Coordinator at Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) Prevention Resource Network (PRN) Harm Reduction Center
Dr. Orisha Bowers
Executive Director of Orixa Healing Art, Wellness and Spiritual Centre
Charla Cousar
Harm Reduction Coordinator, Program Management Officer at NJ Department of Health (DOH)
Sam Rivera
Executive Director at OnPoint Overdose Prevention Center NYC
Dr. Anthony Salandy
Senior Development of Business Strategy at National Harm Reduction Coalition
9:30am - 10:30am
Amphitheatre, 1st Floor
Panel Discussion
Blazing a Path Forward: The Future of Harm Reduction
9:00am – 10:30am
Openings
8:00am – 9:00am
Registration/Check In
10:30am – 11:00am
Networking & Exhibitors
Embark on a creative journey as we equip you with the necessary tools to prevent burnout and improve your well-being with art. Learn how to identify your emotions with a personalized ‘feelings map’ with emotional cartography and master the power of the ‘emotional scale’ during this unique session.
By the end of this workshop, you will have a toolbox filled with creative coping mechanisms, empowering you to
feel balanced, at peace, and ready to tackle any challenge that comes your way!
Leah Guzman
Board Certified Art Therapist at Leah Guzman Studios
11:00am - 12:00pm
Wilson, 1st Floor
Workshop
The Art of Navigation: Charting Your Course to Well-Being
This session will cover the intersection of supplies, street level and mobile resources, and peers at the heart of harm reduction strategies and why it is critical to offer these services without the expectation or requirement that individuals seek treatment.
Whether you're new to harm reduction or looking to refine your approach, you'll leave with practical insights about tailoring care to an individual’s unique circumstances and a stronger sense of unity within the peer community.
Together, let’s co-create solutions and build a more compassionate and effective harm reduction network!
Brandy Mullin
Program Director, CPRS, MSW Candidate at Agape Counseling Services
11:00am - 12:00pm
Madison, 1st Floor
Workshop
Meeting People Where They Are: Peer-Driven Harm Reduction Strategies
Creating spaces where young adults—who often feel disconnected from traditional recovery supports—feel understood and valued is essential. Through innovative, peer-led approaches, the Collegiate Recovery Program at The College of New Jersey has demonstrated success at engaging this historically hard-to-reach population.
Gianna Anselmo
CPRS at TCNJ
Eric Van Eck
CPRS at TCNJ
Robert Mitten
CPRS at TCNJ
Jillian Perez
Lead Peer Educator at TCNJ
11:00am - 12:00pm
Einstein, 1st Floor
Workshop
Building Collegiate Recovery Communities: Insights and Innovations for Engaging Young Adults
Join us for an interactive workshop dedicated to exploring successful approaches for integrating recovery support services within rural communities by leveraging underutilized community resources and enhancing connections across the statewide continuum of care.
We will explore effective outreach strategies tailored to specific age groups, geographic areas, and risk factors using successful practices from southern NJ. Participants will also engage in collaborative discussions, share insights, and discuss potentially new innovative solutions for overcoming challenges unique to rural settings.
Heidi Baird
CPRS at the Southwest Council
Job Brown
CPRS at the Southwest Council
Joshua Drake
Peer Recovery Specialist at the Southwest Council
11:00am - 12:00pm
Burr, 2nd Floor
Workshop
Connecting Rural Communities: Successful Strategies for Community Engagement and Recovery Support
Discover how building robust connections among family, friends, healthcare providers, local organizations, and peer support groups promotes lasting healing when infused into mental health and recovery services.
During this collaborative session, explore strategies for providing comprehensive care that addresses emotional, social, and psychological needs, enhancing access to resources, cultivating a sense of belonging, and offering encouragement to support sustained recovery for individuals in need.
Lavinia Adams
CPRS at Center for Great Expectations
Kyra Gil
LAC at Center for Great Expectations
11:00am - 12:00pm
Nash, 2nd Floor
Workshop
Building Community Support Networks: Enhancing Mental Health and Recovery Services Through Collaboration
11:00am – 12:00pm
Morning Workshops
Join us for an insightful session on strategies for effectively engaging with hospital networks, collaborating with healthcare teams, and extending recovery services into broader communities. The presenters will share key insights on implementing universal screening and personalized recovery support through a patient-centered approach within RWJBarnabas Health’s ambulatory care settings.
Participants will gain actionable insights on integrating harm reduction strategies and learn important metrics on patient acceptance and treatment referrals to aid in the future development of similar programs.
Brian Radano
NCPRSS, Community Health Worker at RWJBH
Gina Bucci
LCSW at RWJBH
1:30pm - 2:30pm
Wilson, 1st Floor
Workshop
Bridging Hospital Care to Community Support: Building Sustainability in Recovery
This hands-on workshop will re-create internal peer specialist collaboration by organizing breakout sessions to brainstorm and develop practical solutions that enhance teamwork and community engagement in supportive care settings.
Through these interactive activities, participants will explore new strategies for effective peer recovery support by sharing ideas and solving real-world challenges as we seek to invigorate our own recovery support work.
David Bloxham
CPRS at Center for Prevention and Counseling
Katie Walker
CPRS, RCPF at Center for Prevention and Counseling
Majorie Timmerman
CPRS at Center for Prevention and Counseling
1:30pm - 2:30pm
Burr, 2nd Floor
Workshop
Fostering Creativity Through Collaboration: How Recovery Support Teams Flourish
In this dynamic workshop, attendees will explore how hybrid recovery community organizations (RCOs) create safer, trauma-informed environments for individuals seeking support. Discover how these organizations provide a stigma-free space, equip people with tools for safer use, and offer comprehensive recovery support through peer-delivered services.
We will discuss the benefits of integrating harm reduction principles into recovery settings and the importance of peer support in cultivating an inclusive and supportive community. Participants will have the chance to collaborate, share experiences, and learn about best practices in creating and maintaining effective hybrid RCOs.
Jon-Erik Randazzo
Peer Recovery Specialist at Prevention is Key
Emily Monks
Program Director at Prevention is Key
1:30pm - 2:30pm
Madison, 1st Floor
Workshop
Creating Safer Spaces: Peer-Delivered Harm Reduction and Recovery Support in Hybrid Recovery Community Organizations
Join us for a transformative workshop focused on enhancing collaboration between peer recovery specialists, law enforcement, and social services in unifying against human trafficking. This session will delve into the critical roles that these agencies play and explore effective strategies for fostering communication and partnership.
Learn about the important role of law enforcement and social services, collaboration techniques, and how to build trust with survivors—a critical component of providing care to victims of human trafficking.
Rolidel Czekajlo
LSW at Covenant House
1:30pm - 2:30pm
Einstein, 1st Floor
Workshop
Building Bridges: Collaborating with Law Enforcement and Social Services to Support Human Trafficking Survivors
Drawing on the latest research and best practices in trauma-informed care (TIC), this workshop will explore its vital role in peer recovery support and how to cultivate safe and inclusive environments.
Learn about implementing TIC principles as a peer and the importance of addressing trauma as a foundational element of recovery support, ensuring that our practices are informed by empathy and mutual understanding.
Amanda Spruill
Peer Supervisor at Rutgers UBHC
1:30pm - 2:30pm
Nash, 2nd Floor
Workshop
Trauma-Informed Care: Empowering Recovery Through Healing Environments
1:30pm – 2:30pm
Afternoon Workshops
2:30pm – 3:00pm
Networking & Exhibitors
Leaders who draw upon lived experience and an empathetic approach may encounter both unique opportunities and challenges whether leading a team or providing direct recovery support.
This keynote session will offer insights and strategies to help the leader within us to lead with empathy and authenticity in diverse and demanding contexts while also advocating for self-care practices that sustain personal well-being and professional integrity.
Join us for a transformative discussion that will equip you with the knowledge and tools to elevate your leadership and establish personal boundaries to prevent burnout all while navigating the complexities of leading with your heart!
The session includes a unifying meditation to close out the 2024 Peer Summit.
Tara Moreno-Wallen
Founder and Executive Director at Serenity House Communities
3:00pm - 4:00pm
Amphitheatre, 1st Floor
Keynote
Elevating Leadership: A 'Boundaried Up' Heart-Centered Approach to Leading
3:00pm – 4:00pm
Closing Keynote
12:00pm – 1:00pm
Lunch
Breathwork & Aromatherapy: Experience the power of mindful breathing paired with soothing scents to calm and center yourself.
Meditative Restorative Stretch: All levels are welcome—from beginners to advanced practitioners, including chair options. Enjoy gentle movements that restore your energy.
Nutrition (Ayurvedic) Coaching: Discover holistic tips to nourish your body with our expert Ayurvedic coach.
Loresa Daniel
Wellness Support
Dr. Moniquea Clark
Founder and Lead Consultant at Agape Healing and Yoga Wellness
Natasha Pennant
Wellness Support
Kia Richardson
Wellness Support
10:30am - 11:00am • 12:00pm - 1:30pm • 2:30pm - 3:00pm
Witherspoon C, 1st Floor
Wellness
Wellness Sessions: Breathwork & Aromatherapy, Meditative Restorative Stretch, and Nutrition (Ayurvedic) Coaching
8:00am – 4:00pm
Wellness Room
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Location
We hosted the 8th Annual Peer Summit in person at the Crowne Plaza Princeton Conference Center in Plainsboro Township, NJ.
Crowne Plaza Princeton - Conference Center
900 Scudders Mill Road
Plainsboro Township, NJ 08536
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FAQs
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Supported By
Funding for this program is made possible by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) State Opioid Response Grants Catalogue of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) No. 93.788. Funding for this initiative was made possible by grant no. H79TI083317 from SAMHSA, NJ DHS, and DMHAS.
