Malloy: Inspired by Advocates
MetroWest Daily News
July 12, 2011
FRAMINGHAM - How encouraging it is, in these difficult economic times, to hear positive, uplifting, and inspirational stories and events. Such an event is actively being played out here at Advocates, one of the largest social service agencies in Massachusetts, located here in Framingham.
Bill Taylor, CEO of Advocates, Dr. Chris Gordon, Sarah Trongone, Keith Scott, Grace Fogarty, and many others in leadership roles in Advocates, should be applauded in implementing a highly effective and innovative program. I am referring here to Advocates' implementation of the 'peer counseling program', where clients who have successfully walked through the valley of mental illness, and have passed rigorous training programs and exams, have become certified counselors with the state.
These 'peer counselors' possess experiential knowledge and wisdom from their heart, from their journey with mental illness and from their past, whereas formal social workers fine their inspiration and knowledge from academic studies.
In Georgia, where peer counselors were first tried, they found their results were as good, if not better, than the professionals. in addition, peer counselors are paid substantially less money, saving much needed tax revenues. Yet clients are receiving better, and more effective services, all the while being empowered.
Who could ask for more?
May other social institutions cultivate open minds and hearts for innovation, vision and creativity, as is the case here in Framingham with Advocates.
GLENN S. MALLOY,
Member of Metrowest National alliance on Mental Illness
Framingham
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