Amari is a dedicated Community Health Worker who is passionate about supporting underserved populations. Growing up in a marginalized community, she witnessed firsthand the impact of limited access to healthcare and resources. This inspired her to pursue a role where she can advocate for health equity and empower others through education and outreach. Amari finds purpose in building trust, bridging gaps, and helping individuals lead healthier lives.

Doris is a Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) and Community Health Worker (CHW) currently serving at Asheville Comprehensive Treatment Center, Ujima (Buncombe County), and Safe Shelter. With a deep commitment to service and advocacy, Doris finds fulfillment in giving back to the community through her work. Her role allows her to support individuals on their path to recovery, promote well-being, and help build stronger, healthier communities.

Karen is a Community Health Worker and NC Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) at Safe Shelter, where she is dedicated to empowering unhoused families. Having personally experienced homelessness herself, Karen deeply understands the emotional and practical struggles of this situation. Drawing from her own journey of overcoming adversity, she offers hope and guidance, helping families find peace and encouraging them to move forward toward a brighter future.

Kenneth Foster is an aspiring Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) and Community Health Worker (CHW) dedicated to uplifting individuals and strengthening communities. With a passion for helping people lead productive, drug-free, and crime-free lives, Kenneth focuses on supporting others in their journey toward stability, self-sufficiency, and family reunification. His commitment to service is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive and reconnect with what matters most—family, purpose, and community.

Reia Freeze is a Community Health Worker at Home (aka Safe Shelter). She has seen first hand the struggle her community faces when they have little to no access to basic needs such as healthcare, housing, career opportunities and so much more. Growing up in this community, she grew passionate to advocate for change for all who are in need. Her goal is to mends the gaps in her community and others, with the knowledge and relationships she gains everyday from working in her community. Reia want to advocate for those who slip through the cracks of the systems we have in place to help them. She truly hopes the work she does makes a positive and live changing impact on the people she comes across daily.

Ryan’s connection to Safe Shelter began as a volunteer and quickly became a pivotal part of his own recovery journey. Now, he draws on both lived experience and professional insight in his role, collaborating closely with Community Health Workers, Peer Support Specialists, and clinicians to help guests access stable housing, healthcare, employment, and other critical supports. Outside of work, he finds balance and renewal through trail running, mountain biking, and yoga—practices that reflect his belief in holistic wellness and community centered recovery.