TUH-Episcopal Campus has been recognized with the Peer Culture Transformation Organizational Award by the City of Philadelphia’s Department of Behavioral Health & Intellectual Disability Services. This accolade acknowledges organizations that support peer workers and volunteers with lived experience in mental health and recovery or substance use disorder.
LJ Rasi, Director of Behavioral Health at Episcopal Campus, noted the early adoption of Certified Peer Specialists (CPSs) since 2011. “We’ve had Certified Peer Specialists longer than anyone in Philadelphia,” Rasi stated. The program has expanded over time, now including Certified Recovery Specialists (CRSs), who assist patients with substance use disorders.
The campus currently employs 16 full-time CPSs and CRSs across various care levels. They play a key role in patient recovery, offering continuity through warm handoffs. Will Bullock, a Certified Recovery Specialist, shared his perspective: “I am the patients we serve.”
Briana Stinson, Director of Therapeutic Programming, highlighted the growth of peer specialists’ roles within communities. Partnerships with Drexel University and Pennsylvania Recovery Organization-Achieving Community Together have created opportunities for future specialists.
Gloria Gonzalez, Director of Substance Use Disorder Engagement, emphasized career advancement for CRSs. “We built a professional ladder where there are two types of CRS positions,” she explained.
The award ceremony was an opportunity to reflect on achievements and future goals. Gonzalez described it as “momentous” recognition for their peers’ contributions. Rasi added, “This was a moment to reflect on how everyone’s hard work has paid off.”
Stephen Marino, a longtime CPS at Episcopal Campus, expressed gratitude for being empowered by his role: “Episcopal Campus didn’t just hire me; they empowered me… Here, my story helps others heal.”
