Peer Washington

Peer Washington is a US nonprofit organization dedicated to providing peer emotional support and development services to individuals impacted by addiction, mental health issues, and HIV/AIDS. It was established as the umbrella organization for various sites across Washington State, including Peer Seattle, Peer Spokane, and Peer Kent, with the launch occurring on July 1, 2020.

Mission and Vision

The mission of Peer Washington is to cultivate powerful and healthy lives by offering peer emotional support and development services. The organization envisions a community of peers connected through shared experiences, providing compassionate support to each other[1][3]. Peer Washington's vision emphasizes the importance of connecting individuals in communities through values of health, well-being, and personal development[3].

Services

Peer Washington provides a range of services, including:

• Peer Coaching: This service focuses on supporting individuals in achieving personal goals and overcoming challenges.
• Support Groups: Various support groups are available across their sites to meet different needs and preferences.
• Resource Connections: Individuals are connected one-on-one with a peer who helps them access community resources such as housing, medical services, and other essential needs.
• Employment Support: This service assists individuals in addressing employment barriers, working with disabilities, and connecting them with job opportunities and resources[3].

Sites and Focus

Peer Washington oversees several sites that tailor their services to specific communities:

• Peer Seattle: Focuses on the LGBTQ community impacted by addiction, mental health issues, and/or HIV/AIDS[2].
• Peer Spokane: Provides services to individuals in Spokane County dealing with addiction and/or mental health challenges[2].
• Peer Kent: Emphasizes support for justice-involved individuals and families in South King County, addressing addiction and mental health[2].
• Peer Olympia: Offers services in several counties with a focus on active military, veterans, people experiencing homelessness, and rural communities[2].

Governance and Operations

Peer Washington is governed by a board of directors, which as of May 2024, includes members such as Michael Kann, Carol Burton, Mark Viegler, Michael Morey, and Kathy Thamm[4]. The organization emphasizes governance practices that include ethical oversight, diversity in leadership, and regular performance assessments[4].

Financial Support

Peer Washington relies on donations to maintain its free services across the state. Financial supporters are crucial for funding programs that benefit individuals and families seeking assistance for addiction, mental health, and HIV/AIDS[1].

History

Initially formed to address HIV/AIDS, Peer Washington expanded its scope to include addiction and mental health support over time[1]. Its evolution reflects the growing need for comprehensive peer support services in Washington State.

[1] https://www.peerwa.org/supportus [2] https://www.peerwa.org/oursites [3] https://www.peerwa.org/services [4] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/91-1327257 [5] https://www.peerwa.org/about