From punk band to peer support
This year I am celebrating a milestone of 20 years of continuous sobriety. Rehab and outpatient programs are not part of my story. Working at Stepping Stone comes with many lessons for me.
My story begins in the late '80s and early '90s in San Francisco, as a runaway teen. I joined an all-girl '60s garage punk band and thought, "I've made it." I dreamed of a bohemian's 1920s lifestyle with artists collaborating late nights, vintage dresses and always with alcohol and drugs. I thought this was "the life," that somehow, I was different than my mom or father. At first, it was fun, but I remember when I made the decision that performing in underground speakeasies, cabarets and partying was more important than my job. It took me a year to get the job as a visual merchandiser at Macy's Union Square. I just couldn't show up on time or not reeking from the night before.
Jump to September 15th, 2006, when I decided to get sober, that I just couldn't do it anymore. There was a moment of clarity that morning. I have had a few lifetimes in the past 20 years. I started practicing Zen Buddhism, went to design school and moved to LA to follow my dreams of being a Set Decorator. I've done window displays for Barneys in Beverly Hills, Banana Republic, and Pottery Barn. I've lost fur babies, an uncle who I loved dearly and a career. But through life's ups and downs I have not picked up.
Around 2020 I was asking a mentor what my next chapter should be. She mentioned that I would be great as a social worker. I had been volunteering with unhoused youth and I loved that. In school I found out about Peer Support, and I knew this was the path. Stepping Stone was my first interview for Peer Support and first job. Honestly, I was surprised I got the job. Stepping Stone had never had Peer Support, so I created a new program, and I loved it. The peer support position allowed me to use my skills in research to create a curriculum for the Peer Support program. I enjoy teaching people new ways of living, seeing the glow come back in their eyes and the laughter that sobriety brings.
"This job has healed me in ways I could not have asked for or knew existed."
It has been over 3 years at Stepping Stone, two years as a counselor. Every day I get to be with the community, share my joy and hope with people in need. I never imagined I would be 20 years sober let alone working in an LGBTQ+ residential program. This job has healed me in ways I could not have asked for or knew existed. My heart is full.
— Nicole