Earlier this year, one of our long time volunteers, Alex, wrote a poem about our vital Hand in Hand peer mentoring program. We were so moved by the poem that we decided to make it into a video so we can share the message with our community and beyond.
Hand in Hand is one of our 3 peer support programs, where volunteers meet one-to-one – in places like coffee shops or parks – with people who are struggling with eating disorders. In describing her volunteer role, Alex wrote, “The Hand in Hand relationship is a partnership, a collaboration. I am the sounding board, confidant and mirror. I infuse optimism and curiosity. I accept the person I am matched with for exactly who they are, as they show up. Some days are extremely difficult for them. Others are more uplifting. Regardless, I strive to help them believe in themselves, connect deeper to their values, and know that recovery is possible.”
We hope that you too are moved by this powerful message, so much so that you share this poem and video with others as well, so that it reaches as many people as possible.