Westchester County Jail recently hosted a visit from Rabiah Gaynor, Associate Commissioner of the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS), to observe the Lives Forward program. The initiative aims to provide training and employment opportunities for residents with mental health or addiction needs involved in the criminal justice system.
The program was developed by Joseph Glazer, Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Community Mental Health (DCMH), in collaboration with local agencies like the Mental Health Empowerment Project (MHEP) and the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD). Participants undergo a six-week course while incarcerated, followed by eligibility for state tests to become certified as Peer Specialists and Certified Recovery Peer Advocates upon release.
Ken Jenkins, Westchester County Executive, expressed pride in the program’s efforts: “Once again, Westchester County is at the forefront of making a difference. I could not be prouder of the efforts of our Departments to create a program that works for the people of our County on so many levels.”
Gaynor emphasized the importance of peer support in recovery: “Peer support allows individuals to build strong connections and creates a sense of belonging on the journey of recovery.”
Michael Orth, Commissioner of DCMH, acknowledged Glazer’s role in addressing peer shortages: “I want to thank DC Glazer and the team at DCMH for identifying the problem that has come from a lack of certified peers and working to find a solution.”
Joseph K. Spano, DOC Commissioner, praised OASAS’s commitment: “A special thanks to Associate Commissioner Gaynor and her team… Their meaningful support will likely enhance our ‘Lives Forward’ program.”
Glazer highlighted how peer models support recovery: “Support and validation are an important part of recovery, and the peer model serves to provide that through connection to individuals who have similar lived experience.”
The collaborative effort seeks not only to address peer shortages but also offer pathways for positive change for those involved in both criminal justice and behavioral health systems.
