Recovery Corps Member Shares Her Experience at Opioids, Stimulants, and Trauma Summit

May 18, 2023

On May 16-18, 2023, a current Recovery Corps member, Breanna Showkeir, and two Recovery Corps program staff, Meagan Barnett and Christina Garcia, attended and presented at the Wisconsin Department of Health Services Opioids, Stimulants, and Trauma Summit held in Wisconsin Dells. Their session titled Nothing for Us Without US: An Integrated Approach to Addressing Substance Use aimed to share the unique approach Recovery Corps takes to support individuals in Wisconsin communities, and how other organizations could integrate a Recovery Coach into their programming and services.

Breanna, who is currently serving at Barron County Health and Human Services, did an amazing job at speaking to AmeriCorps and how it has impacted her life. She shared a bit of her story, talked about what a day in the life of her AmeriCorps Recovery Corps experience looks like, and shared why others in the audience could benefit from an AmeriCorps member too.

“Recovery Corps has given me the opportunity to work at a host site in the Health and Human Services field for two years which has been an exceptional experience for me. I have been able to use my Educational Award toward school and the experience from Recovery Coaching helped me excel in my classes. Being a person in recovery out in the community and helping other people like me is something that I will never forget. I want to continue being of service and hope to make a difference in the future.” ~ Breanna Showkeir

Pictured from left to right: Christina Garcia, Breanna Showkeir, Meagan Barnett

One of the most impactful outcomes of this presentation was the AmeriCorps alumni in the room that felt compelled to speak on behalf of their AmeriCorps experience towards the end of the presentation. Phrases like “AmeriCorps saved my life” were spoken during multiple testimonies. There were quite a few tears shed during this presentation and that is a true testament of how powerful AmeriCorps can be for someone.

AmeriCorps Day at the Capitol

March 15, 2023

On March 15th, 2023 a handful of MCHS AmeriCorps members and staff attended AmeriCorps Day at the Capitol in Madison. Serve Wisconsin organized the event in an effort to educate and raise awareness on what AmeriCorps is. Attendees heard from a variety of speakers, including Lt. Governor Sara Rodriguez, and visited with several legislative offices. Overall, it was a great day filled with all things AmeriCorps!

Recovery Corps is in the News!

March 2, 2023

Marshfield Clinic Recovery Coach Services are gaining attention in the media. Check out the links below to see Recovery Corps members featured!

Midterm Training

Feb. 15-17, 2023

During February 15-17th, 2023, AmeriCorps members from Marshfield Clinic Health System’s Community Corps and Recovery Corps programs gathered at the Kalahari in Wisconsin Dells for their first in person, group gathering in nearly three years. This Midterm Training was intended to bring members together to promote networking, professional development, and to rejuvenate members as they continue towards completion of a successful term of service.

A variety of speakers were invited to share their expertise on topics such as non-apparent disability and identity, mental health, self-care, and trauma informed care. Members were also offered the opportunity to take a DiSC personal skills assessment and have a professional headshot photo taken. Additionally, four program alumni shared with current members their experience as a member and the transition into life after AmeriCorps. Lastly, attendees came together to complete several service projects which included painting kindness rocks, making cards for nursing homes, and writing letters to veterans. Overall, it was a successful event that resulted in members and program staff alike feeling more connected with each other, excited for the remainder of the term, and grateful for the time together in person.