In our last episode, we heard from Andi and Tanner Clements from Uplift Appalachia. They shared that churches and communities want to help with recovery, but most don’t feel equipped to take on the challenge. There’s also the persistent fear that they might get things wrong.

The Tennessee Lifeline Peer Project, a statewide effort by the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Office of Faith-Based Initiatives, is making a massive impact in providing that vital information, training and connection to resources. Through their team of 20 coordinators across the state, they have had a significant impact on reducing stigma and strengthening local support.  

My guests this month are Jessica Youngblom, director of strategic initiatives, and Jaime Harper, director of faith-based initiatives. In this conversation, we talk about why the Lifeliners are having a huge impact, the challenges faced by the communities they serve, how little things can make huge differences for people in recovery, and how the long-term outcomes from this work can last deep into the future.

Learn more:

• TN REDLINE: 1 (800) 889-9789
• TN Lifeline Peer Project

Original music by Blind House. Hosted and produced with additional scoring by Jeremy Kourvelas.