When life takes an unexpected turn, finding support from those who truly understand can make all the difference.

United Spinal's Peer Mentoring Program connects newly injured individuals to trained mentors who have firsthand experience navigating life with a spinal cord injury. Over 700 mentors nationwide provide practical advice, emotional support, and resources to help mentees adapt to new challenges.

The Impact of Peer Mentoring

• Emotional Resilience: Mentees often find renewed hope and confidence as they see mentors thriving despite similar challenges.
• Practical Solutions: Mentors share practical tips and strategies for overcoming everyday hurdles, from navigating accessibility issues to advocating for healthcare needs.
• Sense of Belonging: Engaging with a community of peers who "get it" reduces feelings of isolation and fosters meaningful connections.
• Paying It Forward: Many mentees become mentors themselves, creating a ripple effect of support and empowerment within the community.

Chapter Spotlight: United Spinal Georgia

Dana Lee Harp has Rheumatoid Arthritis and autoimmune diseases that caused a SCI. As the Peer Mentoring Coordinator for United Spinal Georgia, she recruits, matches and supervises all of her peer mentors and mentees. "I've always had a passion to advocate for people who have intellectual, developmental, mobility and invisible disabilities," she says.

"Being a Peer Mentor Coordinator is very special because the Peer Mentor Program is the heart of the United Spinal Association."

United Spinal Georgia members at their 2024 holiday party.

One mentor who exemplifies this is Eddie Smith, Vice President of United Spinal Georgia and founder of Paralyzed From Violence, which advocates for people affected by violence and disability. After experiencing the power of peer support firsthand he wanted to give back.

"Mentors provide not just guidance but also hope, showing them that a fulfilling and active life is still possible," he says. "Mentorship empowers people to regain control and envision a future beyond their injury."

Eddie & Parish

Eddie has worked with his mentee Parish and has seen his confidence and independence grow in just a few months. "One of our most impactful conversations centered around finding purpose after injury. Parish was initially struggling with the 'why' of his situation, which is something many of us go through."

"We talked about channeling pain into advocacy and personal growth. That conversation was a turning point for him, and since then he's become more focused on setting goals for himself, both personally and professionally."

For mentors, it's a chance to give back and affirm how far they've come. For mentees, it's invaluable to learn from someone who truly understands their journey.

Join our Peer Mentoring program

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