Opening Doors to Resilience with the Marion County Resilience & Recovery Project Peer Support Team 

Every weekday at 8:00 AM, the Marion County Resilience & Recovery Project team opens the doors to their newly launched Resource Center, ready to welcome anyone who walks in. It’s more than a drop-in space—it’s a place of connection, belonging, and possibility.

The Resource Center serves justice-involved individuals navigating life after incarceration, from those recently released from the Marion County Jail next door to those on parole or probation. Participants come to use computers for job searches, connect with peers, attend classes and groups, get resources and referrals, grab coffee, or simply relax in the welcoming, living room-style space. Some visit for the first time to complete an intake, while others return to share milestones on their life journey with our friendly team of seven Peer Support Specialists.

“When people come here, they’re already facing barriers. We like to be known as the people who really connect them with the services they need.”

Each day brings something new. Team members meet participants in the Resource Center and in the community at the Marion County Public Safety Building, partner agencies, and housing sites. They meet weekly with our Marion County Reentry Team to coordinate referrals and make transitions smoother for our participants who are reentering the community after incarceration. They also join monthly Salem service provider meetings with 20+ agencies to strengthen support networks and share resources.

Since opening the new Resource Center, the number of people walking through the doors has nearly tripled, a sign that word is spreading—and that having accessible, welcoming support spaces is more important than ever. With more room, natural light, and areas for conversation and connection, our peer support team can now serve more participants in meaningful ways.

“We’re all one solid group,” reflects Peer Support Program Manager, Shawn Barrios. “Everyone is so different, but we share aligned goals and a passion for helping people. When it comes to finding resources or seeing people succeed, [we feel it deeply].”

The team’s work is full of moments that remind them why they do what they do. One recent success story illustrates the full continuum of support: a participant first came while navigating a court case and searching for housing. Peer Support Specialist, Ellisha Pepper, guided her through applications and appointments, helping her secure temporary housing, gain employment, and eventually move into her own apartment. Throughout the process, the participant stayed connected with us. Today, she is thriving—and recently became engaged to another participant who is building his own success story!

“I know how stressful it is; I’ve been through those situations myself,” shares Ellisha. “It’s just beautiful. All because of the help and support of getting connected to resources.”

Looking ahead, the Marion County team hopes to expand support for youth and families and continue to grow in impact and reach! The Marion County Resilience & Recovery Project is one of many locations across three counties, a part of a growing program walking alongside people on their journeys across the state of Oregon.

Visit the Marion County Resilience & Recovery Project Resource Center at 3950 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, OR 97317, Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM. To contact Peers in Marion County, email mcpeers@thepathfindernetwork.org or call (971) 280-0493. Learn more about The Pathfinder Network and our peer support programs at www.thepathfindernetwork.org.