My journey with City Voices began a year ago when I joined their semi-weekly Peer Workers United virtual support group. The group, moderated by Dan Frey, creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels at ease. Many new members have joined, lighting up the screen with inspiring stories of recovery and well-being.
When I first started, I wasn’t sure if I belonged there. I questioned my own journey and what I had to share. One of the most engaging aspects of these meetings is that Dan often invites guests from other states to provide valuable insights.
I value that peers in these meetings come from across the United States. They are respectful, open about their recovery journeys, and create an intimate environment where we learn from one another and gather strategies to remain resilient in the field.
This peer-led space has helped me grow personally and become a stronger advocate. Because of Dan and the other peers I’ve met, I now see how my passion has aligned with my purpose. I have found peace in knowing that I am not alone but part of a tribe ready to support me whenever I need it. This has been empowering not only for me but also for my family. With members from different states, we are able to compare how rules and policies vary, including how peers are treated and respected. Sharing our lived experiences makes us realise we are not alone, especially during difficult times.
City Voices has remained true to its mission of transforming lives through peer connection, education, and empowerment for youth and adults living with mental health and substance use challenges. I have been invited to many events, from park gatherings and nature walks to comedy nights filled with laughter. City Voices also provides opportunities for musicians to perform and offers activities that enrich the NYC community. Through these events, I’ve not only met new peers but have also discovered countless opportunities for connection.
The organisation has also embraced holistic mental health support. Recognising that many peers seek this type of care, City Voices has found presenters to support recovery and growth. These groups have helped many peers spiritually, while also working to de-stigmatise mental health conditions. Sharing lived experiences is at the heart of what makes this organisation so special.
The City Voices website consistently features events and resources for both youth and adults. Recently, we hosted a “Social Anxiety Mixer” at the Fountain House art gallery, designed to support people who find socialising difficult. It gave participants a chance to mingle without pressure, start conversations, share resources, buy art, or simply connect. My son, who has autism and struggles with social anxiety, attended with me, and it was the perfect opportunity for him. He loved the experience. The smiles on people’s faces and the confidence that grew as they began socialising naturally showed the event was a success.
If City Voices thrives on passion and dedication, then this organisation deserves recognition for the tremendous support it offers New Yorkers facing mental health and substance use challenges. Mental health is difficult enough to navigate alone, and when combined with substance use, the challenges multiply. I feel blessed that City Voices has supported both youth and adults, fostering emotional growth, building community connections, and offering platforms for people to share their stories and talents. The organisation creates opportunities for self-expression, healing, and discovery of artistic sides many never knew they had.
For 25 years, City Voices has provided information, resources, and community connections. These in-person gatherings bring peers together to bond over shared experiences and provide vital mental health support.
Thanks to City Voices, I now understand the importance of this much-needed programme. It has helped me become a better version of myself. These programmes must continue to be supported, as they are transforming lives in New York City and beyond. City Voices is a place where love, friendships, and meaningful connections are built.
May City Voices continue its mission for many years to come.
Diana Mendez is a long-time Komodo dragon enthusiast from northern Myanmar. He speaks Vietnamese with a hint of a Ukrainian accent.