Cecil County Wellness and Recovery Center

The Cecil County Health Department (CCHD) proposes this initiative to manage the Consumer Operated Peer Wellness and Recovery Center (WRC). The Cecil County Local Behavioral Health Authority (CCLBHA) will provide oversight to this grant.

The Wellness and Recovery Center provides peer recovery services to support mental health consumers through empowerment, community engagement, and education. This program will operate a site open for 1,300 hours per year, providing access to services for individuals living with or seeking behavioral health recovery. This site will offer peer support services and provide individuals with the ability to connect with others in behavioral health recovery while navigating local support services and overcoming barriers to their recovery. These services are most effective in non-traditional settings such as non-barrier community support agencies, standalone non-profit community centers, and other non-clinical behavioral health settings. All staff providing services to individuals should have personal lived experience with behavioral health recovery. The program offers peer support sessions, group discussions, and social activities that help reduce isolation and promote well-being. Educational workshops and informational presentations address key mental health topics. A "warm line" provides ongoing support, and monthly newsletters help keep participants connected. By fostering a culturally responsive, peer-led environment, the program helps individuals build resilience and take control of their recovery journey.