October 19, 2023 (Lincoln, Neb.) – Nearly 200 individuals serve in peer support or
facilitation roles at Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) facilities.
They provide support to peers during incarceration and as they prepare for successful
reentry to the community. In recognition of their invaluable role in rehabilitation,
Governor Jim Pillen has proclaimed October 19 as Peer Support Celebration Day.
“Peer support is an emerging best practice that has proven to be an effective tool in
supporting a person’s overall mental health and wellness,” said Deputy Director DawnRenee Smith. “Individuals practicing peer support are well-trained. They don’t counsel,
mentor or advise, they use their lived experiences to encourage, engage with and
support others as they move toward wellness and health.”
Intentional Peer Support (IPS), facilitated by the Mental Health Association of Nebraska,
was first introduced at the Nebraska State Penitentiary in 2018. Today, more than 100
incarcerated individuals are currently trained to be IPS specialists at NDCS facilities.
Incarcerated IPS specialists are paired with individuals who have similar experiences as
a way to tackle issues related to mental health, addiction, trauma and other life
challenges.
“IPS is based on hope,” said Michael Jackson, an IPS specialist at the Nebraska
Correctional Youth Facility. “It’s building relationships and connection with individuals,
and I think that a lot of individuals need that.”
Incarcerated IPS specialists undergo an application process, interviews and extensive
training. Upon graduation, they are equipped to walk alongside their peers in a way that
enriches both individuals. As trust in the relationship builds, both people are able to
challenge each other to see things from new angles, develop greater awareness of
personal and relational patterns and support one another in trying new positive
behaviors without the constraints of an expert/client relationship.
