Eliza is one of the founding mamas of the eco-village of Ionia, on the Kenai Peninsula. Mutual support has saved and shaped her life. Eliza and her husband Ted have 13 grown children, and their recipe for staying happy, healthy and sane includes wholesome plant-based foods, close cooperative living, gardening, and natural building. When she is not sharing about peer support and holistic wellness, Eliza can be found happily weeding in her garden or playing with clay.

Ryen is a passionate and dedicated advocate, who can hold effective communication with a wide variety of people. She has an extensive background in human connection and service to her community. Youth and elders hold a special place in Ryen’s heart. She is a traditional healer, reiki practitioner, meditation facilitator, Peer Support Associate and loves listening to life stories and learning new life skills, beside her students.

Meet Jess, a dedicated powerhouse, who is driven by a deep passion to make a difference in the lives of others. To turn her empathy into action, Jess embarked on a journey of learning and self-improvement.

Recognizing the importance of support for those going through challenging times, Jess pursued and completed Peer Support training, empowering herself to be a guiding light for others in need. Additionally, she became a Certified Trauma Support Specialist, equipping herself with the expertise to assist individuals navigating trauma. As a licensed PeerZone facilitator and Mental Health First Aid Instructor, she ensures that those around her receive the help and support they require.

Susan Musante, MS, LPCC was the founding director of Soteria-Alaska, a model proven to be a highly effective alternative to hospitalization for newly diagnosed people, and first full time director of CHOICES an alternative to conventional community mental health services directed and provided primarily by people who themselves have a “lived experience” with recovery. She is a leader, educator and advocate for the development of voluntary, informed, compassionate supports and services that actually work. She has worked in universities, community-based centers and consumer-run services. She has educated peer practitioners and masters level practitioners. Currently she is involved in advocacy and development projects as a contracted consultant. Her commitment is to respect the “lived experience” and support recovery.

Besides feeding everyone fabulous nourishing food, Saori is organized and detail oriented, so she provides oversight for the finances and keeps contracts and records, as well as supports the team to stay on task. Thank you Saori!