Family Peer Mentor
Summit County Children Services
Akron, Ohio
Jessica Okolish is a person in long-term recovery from substance use disorder and has dedicated her life to supporting others on their journey of healing as a certified peer support specialist. For the past five years, Jessica has worked in child welfare with the Ohio START program, where she walks alongside families impacted by substance use by connecting them to resources and hope.
Jessica is a full-time student at Grand Canyon University pursuing a Bachelor of Social Work, with the long-term goal of earning a master's degree in social work. Jessica’s passion lies in using her education and lived experience to empower individuals and families, advocate for recovery-oriented services, and foster resilience.
Jessica believes deeply in the power of shared experience to inspire change. By openly sharing her own journey of recovery, she strives to instill hope in others who may feel discouraged and to show that recovery is not only possible but sustainable.
G9 - Building Trust, Changing Systems: The Power of Lived Experience in Supporting Families
Wednesday, April 29, 2026
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM MDT