Peer Specialist Advisory Committee
The Peer Specialist Advisory Committee provides advice and guidance to Via Hope staff on issues related to Via Hope’s programs, including the training of peer specialists throughout Texas and the provision of technical assistance to behavioral health organizations.
The Advisory Committee is comprised of up to fifteen (15) experienced peer specialists who are currently employed or volunteering. The Advisory Committee members work in a diverse set of mental health and substance use organizations, including peer-run organizations, community mental health centers, state hospitals, other private mental health providers, and Veterans’ organizations. In order to best represent the Texas peer specialist workforce as a whole, the Advisory Committee maintains a diverse membership in terms of ethnicity, age, geographic location, rural or urban setting, length of experience, and participation in other Via Hope initiatives. A member of the Advisory Committee also serves on the Via Hope Recovery Stakeholders Committee.
Members serve for staggered three-year terms. Individuals nominate themselves for membership and Via Hope staff conduct a competitive application review process. If you are interested in serving on the Peer Specialist Advisory Committee or have additional questions please contact us by emailing info@viahope.org.
Peer Specialist Advisory Committee Charter
The 2019 Peer Specialist Advisory Committee Members are (in alphabetical order)
Randie Benno
Larry Diaz
Dorsen “Red” Gilbert
Emmanuel Gonzalez
Stephanie Jack
Meredith Jones
Nikki Prince
Annie Powell
JoAnna Rodgers
Abraham Samaniego
You can access the meeting minutes our Archive page.