Alliance Peer Nicky Bravo shared her perspective on how Peer health outreach has helped her support vulnerable New Yorkers, and manage her own health needs, in a powerful op-ed in AM New York. As an Alliance Peer, Nicky has helped hundreds of New Yorkers navigate systemic inequities to improve their health outcomes. Thank you Nicky!
I know that change will come!
“When I joined Alliance for Positive Change in 2016, I was at a crossroads. I had recently returned home from prison and wanted to control my substance use. I was eager to start over. Was I going to continue down the path I’d been on, or move in a more positive direction? I didn’t know if I would succeed or fail, but I had to try.
”I am proud and grateful for where I am today. I learned so much by becoming an Alliance Peer—it has been a crucial part of my healing journey.
”As a Peer, I am a role model. I don’t always like going to the doctor, but I can’t encourage other people to visit the doctor if I’m not doing it myself! I’m transparent and honest. I always ask, “How can I show up for myself and others today?”
”I work with participants in Alliance’s women’s programs. It takes a lot of dedication. You have to have a passion for it. I make sure our participants get to their appointments and manage their health. My superpower is being honest and a good listener. That makes the biggest difference—showing up, building trust, and reminding people that change will come.
”Being a Peer is part of my own recovery. I show up for work, manage my responsibilities, and have a routine. I have a great network of people who are there when I need them, which makes all the difference for my mental health.
”Alliance makes it possible for so many New Yorkers to thrive! That’s why I am asking you to support Alliance with a generous gift today. You have the superpower to change lives by donating today at www.alliance.nyc/power.
Thank you for standing with us!”
—Nicky B., Alliance Peer Superhero