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Welcome to the 2025 Research to Recovery Conference
Thursday May 22, 2025 11:30am - 12:15pm EDT

While the peer support profession was not official recognized in Virginia until 2016, people with lived experience have been integral to care for individuals with substance use disorders throughout the history of addiction treatment.  This panel will explore the wisdom of professionals who utilized their lived experience as critical part of care since long before peers could become certified in Virginia.  The panel will also explore the individual, organizational and systemic challenges and opportunities of a rapidly growing profession, and how to train and support Professional Peers within addiction treatment and recovery support services.
Speakers
avatar for Reginald

Reginald "Reggie" Jenkins

Program Supervisor, Richmond Behavioral Health Authority North Campus Men’s Residential Treatment Center
Reginald Jenkins is a Program Supervisor for Richmond Behavioral Health Authority North Campus Men’s Residential Treatment Center.  Jenkins was born in Richmond Virginia and migrated to Orangeburg New York where he was raised on an old WWII Army Base, called Camp Shanks. Jenkins... Read More →
avatar for Kenneth

Kenneth "Hopefiend" Harris

Certified Peer Recovery Specialist, Richmond Behavioral Health Authority
Kenneth "Hopefied" Harris CSAC-A, CPRS, COAPS, is a key member of the recovery community with over 25 years of lived experience. His journey began with addiction to heroin, cocaine, and other substances, and experiences with multiple incarcerations and treatments. Kenneth became a... Read More →
avatar for Valerie Coley

Valerie Coley

Pastor
In 2000 Valerie started working in the Richmond area with those with mental health challenges, behavioral problems and family crises. Pastor Valerie has great compassion when it comes to community outreach and bridging gaps. She became certified in 21st Century Creating a Compassionate... Read More →
avatar for Ervin Hart

Ervin Hart

Peer Recovery Specialist, REAL LIFE
Ervin Hart engages in community outreach in the East End of Richmond, works one-on-one with those coming through that Center, and leads groups and classes. He is a State Certified Peer Recovery Coach, as well as a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC). He has over 30 years of... Read More →
Thursday May 22, 2025 11:30am - 12:15pm EDT
Academic Learning Commons - VCU - 1107

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