VPGH in the community
VPGH staff regularly engage in community outreach to build relationships and raise awareness about available services and resources for those seeking support for problem gambling. These engagements range from presentations to local and state organizations and tabling at public events to podcast appearances and meetings with problem gamblers.
The following is a look at just a few of VPGH’s outreach activities in late 2024.
Nov. 29: CARITAS Afterworks presentation
Peer recovery specialist Sean Fournia spoke at CARITAS, a Richmond nonprofit supporting people experiencing homelessness and addiction, about the future of peer support. As an alumnus of the CARITAS’s peer-driven recovery program, the Healing Place, Fournia shared his own journey through the program, including how the Healing Place helped him return to the workforce and enter the recovery field. His story further emphasized the transformative power of peer specialists in recovery. Fournia also delved into the vision and mission of VPGH and its emphasis on peer support, and shared information about resources for those seeking support for problem gambling.
Nov. 8: Virginia DBHDS Office of Recovery Services Problem Gambling virtual seminar
Azeem Majeed, lead peer recovery specialist, and other VPGH staff gave a presentation on the work of VPGH and available resources in Virginia. Clinicians were also invited to join the partnership’s network.
Oct. 27: On the Porch RVA video podcast
Fournia shared his personal story and VPGH services for the On the Porch RVA podcast. Hosted by Tracy Hunley, the podcast series features a casual conversation about local issues, recorded on the host or guest’s porch.
Aug. 26: Bristol Rhythm and Roots Reunion
Peer recovery specialist Elizabeth Childress attended the three-day festival held in the city of Bristol on the Virginia-Tennessee line. From the Hard Rock’s tent, Childress spread awareness about gambling risks, shared resources and materials and provided additional conversation to some who had experienced gambling-related harm.
Photo by Sam Balye on Unsplash
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