In Monroe County (NY), a pressing issue was quietly unfolding. Many Family Peer Advocates (FPAs) in healthcare settings lacked the cultural framework and knowledge to effectively serve Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) children and families, making many families reluctant to work with them.

The solution? The Healing Together Project, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at increasing the number of credentialed BIPOC FPAs. With a grant from the Mother Cabrini Foundation, CCSI, advocacy organization BIPOC PEEEEEEK, and Rochester Regional Health (RRH) teamed up to make the project a reality.

CCSI provides the essential “backbone” that allows BIPOC PEEEEEEK to focus on supporting the FPA candidates in their credentialing journey. CCSI manages the grant, tracks and analyzes project data, handles media relations, and helps connect graduates with employment opportunities. In this innovative partnership, CCSI is proud to help BIPOC PEEEEEEK create capacity to do the work they do best.

During 2024, the Healing Together Project graduated 30 newly credentialed FPAs. The project has not only helped place FPAs in the community but also elevated their role in patient recovery, highlighting the value of having individuals with similar cultural experiences engaging with families.