Alliance is grateful to Shantae Owens for his more than a decade of outstanding work as a harm reduction Peer outreach worker. In that time, he has saved dozens of lives by acting fast to reverse overdoses, and has helped other people access essential harm reduction services to prevent overdoses in the first place. As he moves on to an exciting new position with our friends at VOCAL-NY, here’s what his colleagues had to say about Shantae:
“Floyd—my mentor,—and Shantae are the best colleagues, great friends, and my famila. Over the past 2 years I've learned so many unique things about harm reduction and prevention thanks to these two wonder men. Both are harm working compassionate people who have went up and above to assist clients and do-workers alike. Providing tool to essentially help individuals grow and make better Choices. Thank you two guys for your service, love and, support” —George
Shantae is a person you would want to learn or teach you about anything about saving a life is heart of gold proves that and he one of most pleasant person to be around and for Floyd theres nothing but nice things and encouraging word you can get from him if you want to stay on the right track you should call on him”—Bernice
"Shantae really cares about helping people. He doesn't mind opening up and making himself vulnerable, which helps other people do the same. He's got a good sense of humor and a great heart" —Dan
“Floyd and Shante were like family and still are to me Floyd was my mentor and my teacher I felt comfortable enough to come to him for anything his vast knowledge I will miss and the stories he used to tell Shantae always made me laugh and we met during training on 35th and 8th Ave and he suggested I come to LESHRC and history was made I'm sorry I didn't get a chance to send them my good wishes they will always have a place in my heart I miss them”—Celeste
We’ll miss seeing you every day, Shantae, but are excited for your next chapter!