Penn Foundation Peer Specialists Walter Wright Jr. and Christopher Meholic Honored by Magellan

Penn Foundation Peer Specialists Walter Wright Jr. and Christopher Meholic were recently honored by Magellan at its inaugural Professional Development Network (PDN) Awards. Wright Jr. received the “Above and Beyond” award. Meholic received the “Best Team Player” award. 

Walter Wright Jr. – Above and Beyond
Wright Jr. has been a Peer Specialist at Penn Foundation for 12 years. His peers nominated him for this award, writing, “Walter has always gone above and beyond to support his participants (and co-workers as well). Particularly during the pandemic, he has worked hard to provide effective and individualized support to his peers. He heightened his interactions with vulnerable participants to help lessen their isolation. He has been flexible with his schedule, and he has creatively found ways to safely see his peers in the community. Walter has coordinated virtual meetings, supported new staff, and helped other Penn Foundation programs as needed during the pandemic. Walter never hesitates to lean in and provide support wherever and whenever it’s needed.” 

Christopher Meholic – Best Team Player
Meholic has been a Peer Specialist at Penn Foundation for almost five years. Meholic’s peers wrote in his nomination, “Chris is a steadying influence with his fellow Peer Specialists. He practices mindfulness regularly and has been known to encourage his co-workers to do a brief mindfulness activity to help them release tension and anxiety. He often uses humor to lighten challenging team conversations and is always willing to listen to anyone who needs to talk. Since the COVID pandemic hit, Chris has taken the time to be present for his co-workers, demonstrating a sense of positivity that is much needed during this stressful time. He has done all of this without judgment and with compassion for the entire team.” 

 About Peer Support
Peer Support is a program that partners Certified Peer Specialists with individuals receiving mental health services or co-occurring mental health services and substance abuse treatment. Peer Specialists are unique in that they draw upon and share their own personal experiences to assist individuals in their recovery. Peer Specialists can provide support to individuals in finding a job, addressing housing issues, becoming involved in the community, self-advocacy, personal empowerment, and opportunities for socialization. For more information about Peer Support, contact Trish Nye, Director of Peer Support Services, at 267.404.5958 or pnye@pennfoundation.org.