Empowering Change: My Journey in Harm Reduction

My Work and My Life

I have dedicated my life to helping others and I have worked incredibly hard for the things that I have. My nonprofit, SafeSteps Initiative is a harm reduction organization. I was featured in an article in the Washington Post for my work in harm reduction. That was one of my proudest moments and one of my biggest accomplishments.

My Accomplishments

In May 2024 I was a full time volunteer for an overdose prevention hotline. I was an organization administrator, hotline operator, operator trainer, and recovery coach for them. I was asked if I would be interested in doing an interview with the Washington Post and I agreed. Over the next several months I spoke with a journalist about my work. In the article online my phone call with my client can be heard.

My dog Ranger, is a 140 pound German Shepard/Leonberger mix and I adopted him a year ago. He is the best dog I have ever had. He loves me because I brought him home from “doggy jail” (the animal shelter).

**My cat Gypsy, is my shadow. She is super attached to me and is there for me when I need snuggles.**

As a Harm Reductionist, I advocate for Narcan/Naloxone Education. Training people on what Narcan is and knowing how to recognize an opioid overdose is a passion of mine. Showing the public how to give this medication is an important part of what I do in the community.

**National Overdose Awareness Day is August 31st. I made this shirt in memory of all my friends and family that I have lost to a fatal overdose.**

My nonprofit organization that I started last year is a harm reduction organization. It is everything that I have worked so hard for and continue working hard.

I love music and this past summer I went to the Summer of Sins Festival! I saw all of my favorite artists and had my picture taken with FJ Outlaw!

Places I Love

During the summer I try to get out to Muskegon Beach as much as I can. Walking the pier down to the lighthouse is relaxing and helps to clear my mind. I live in Grand Rapids, Michigan and was raised here. I have also lived in the Chicago area for 9 years and Florida back in 2004 and again in 2015-2016. I went to Traverse City, Michigan for vacation over the summer. The picture above is a picture overlooking the bay.

My Fur Children

A Peak Into My World…..

Grand Haven, MI

This is my favorite place to go in the summer! I grew up going to this beach and have always loved coming here.

Downtown Grand Rapids, MI

The Grand River and the 6th Street Bridge downtown on a very cold winter night. It certainly does look beautiful, though.

Point Betsy, Frankfort, MI

I have been going to Point Betsy in Frankfort, Michigan since I was a kid. Watching the sunset out there is absolutely breathtaking. I went out there this past summer for vacation.

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