At Perry Wellness Center, many staff members see themselves as both employees and peers. After years of dealing with their own recovery, they are giving back by providing support to other peers in their personal journeys of recovery.

Essie Fulks is one such individual. A certified peer specialist, she has been a strong presence at PWC for six years. She has a bachelor’s degree in Business Education and a master’s degree in Education, but her life experience is equally important in her role at the center. Peers frequently seek her out for advice and support, and she relies upon her experience and life lessons to give others guidance. As the mother of four grown sons and a wife celebrating 48 years of marriage, she can speak with authority on issues relating to relationships and family.

“I am happy at Perry Wellness Center,” Fulks says. “It is good for me to feel good about helping peers and others. I have another business of offering housing for individuals with mental health issues. I try to become more aware of the growing needs of others in our community.”

In the photo above, Essie Fulks takes a rare break to practice her jig-saw puzzles skills.