PeerWorks Community Connect: Advancing Access to Peer Support

On October 30, 2024, the inaugural PeerWorks Community Connect event,  "Advancing Access to Peer Support," was held at The 519 in Toronto. This event marks the beginning of a series aimed at fostering connections among peer-serving organizations across Ontario.

With over 40 attendees, the gathering showcased a diverse range of organizations from the Toronto region, each hosting tables to share their initiatives and promote collaboration. 

A highlight of the event was a panel discussion featuring prominent leaders in the field. Carolyn Tinglin, Director and co-founder of the Youth Alliance for Intersectional Justice (YAIJ), Chukuka Ebuta, Peer Initiatives Coordinator at Stella's Place, and Elizabeth Tremblay, founder of Mentor/Mentee Canada and the collaborative resource hub Peer House Toronto, offered valuable insights into the challenges and successes of peer support initiatives. The discussion was expertly moderated by Asante Haughton, an entrepreneur, activist, speaker, writer, and mental health worker.

Panellists addressed significant barriers to advancing access to peer support, including insufficient and unsustainable government funding and a general lack of understanding about the nature of peer support. Despite these challenges, they highlighted the powerful impact peer support has had on the communities they serve. Carolyn Tinglin emphasized its role as a "lifeline," illustrating the transformative effect it can have on individuals.

This inaugural event set the stage for ongoing dialogue and collaboration, underscoring the vital role of peer support in fostering resilience and healing. As PeerWorks continues its journey across Ontario, it aims to strengthen the network of organizations dedicated to this essential work, ensuring that everyone has access to the support they need.