How can lived experience transform justice-involved systems? This session explores how recovery leaders are bridging gaps between law enforcement, probation, and courts to create stronger, more compassionate reentry pathways. Featuring Joey Montes of the Recovery Alliance of El Paso, participants will learn how leadership rooted in lived experience builds trust, reduces stigma, and fosters collaboration that improves outcomes for justice-involved individuals.
Drawing on examples from Texas, including innovative reentry programs in El Paso, this conversation highlights how peer recovery leaders are reducing recidivism, expanding recovery access, and changing community perceptions of justice and recovery.
Join us for an interactive discussion on how PROs across Texas can apply these strategies to strengthen partnerships, integrate lived experience into local justice initiatives, and advance recovery-oriented systems of care.
Course Objectives:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Explain how leaders can center lived experience in reentry and diversion programs to reduce stigma and change perceptions within justice systems.
Identify leadership practices that help build trust and collaboration with law enforcement, probation officers, and courts.
Describe the ways lived experience leadership in reentry programs can improve outcomes such as reduced recidivism and increased engagement in recovery supports.
Date of course: December 8, 2025
Time of course: 12-1:00 CST
Location: Online
Trainers: Anna Unnerstall, PRO Director, Joey Montes Recovery Alliance of El Paso
Cost: FREE
Language: English
For withdrawal or special accommodations, please email anna.unnerstall@recoverypeople.org
Satisfaction survey is required to receive CE certificate
Closed captions will be available
Registration Required
Register here
Full attendance required (1 continuing education hours in leadership)
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with the link to join.