STORIES
Our Stories.
On the Front Lines is passionate about the lives and stories of those serving our community.
We want to share the stories of hope triumph and overall success in our daily efforts. Your personal and professional efforts ignite hope.
“On the Front Lines Community Alliance has been a meaningful space for me to connect and collaborate with other community partners, learn about valuable resources, and grow in my confidence as a professional. I am truly grateful for the support, shared knowledge, and sense of community this alliance provides.”
Stephanie Bryant
“The thought of renewing my Peer Recovery Support certification terrified me at first, but the On the Front Lines Community Alliance made it simple and empowering. The resources on their website walked us through every step, and the Peer Recovery Support Bootcamp gave me the confidence I needed. What once felt overwhelming became a reminder of how supported we are in this community. I’m so grateful to OTFLCA for providing such a helpful tool for all of us working in recovery.”
Angie & Alex, Peer Recovery Supporters
“Being new to the field and to the area, on the front lines was one of the first Meetings I attended. The atmosphere was welcoming, collaborative and knowledgeable. I was connected with lots of different providers and community partners, but more than that I was connected to people in the field that we’re willing to work together and welcome me into this community.” -Donald Weatherwax
"Plainly put, I wouldn't have the job i have currently without OTFL. I was already working in the recovery field, and had some connections built. An opening at my current job came up, and I was immediately offered an interview, which lead to employment. Now those same connections are what I rely on to get the various types of care my clients need, especially when the barriers are new or different than my experience is able to find solutions for."
Matt Godwin
“In 2022 I started attending the On the Frontlines meetings. I was in awe of how everyone supported each other and worked together. I just knew I wanted to be a part of it. I started making connections and learning more about the professional side of the recovery community. Through going to the monthly gatherings, I found support and knowledge.
From the connections I made at the On the Front Lines gatherings, I got 3 scholarships: one for a CDCA, another for a Community Health Worker certification, a national certification as Event Interventionist, and a Peer Support certification for Kentucky.”
Tara Cain
“On the Front Lines didn’t just shape my work—it shaped who I am in the community. It pushed me to grow as a leader, to stay grounded when things got heavy, and to keep my heart centered on the people I serve. Community support gave me clarity when I needed direction and strength when I was running on fumes. Because of OTFL, I learned how to build relationships that go way deeper than business. I learned to show up for people in their victories and sit with them in their struggles, forming connections rooted in trust, honesty, and real shared experience. Those relationships turned into partnerships and friendships that actually move the needle for our community. OTFL has been a steady force—shaping my leadership, sharpening my purpose, and teaching me what it truly means to walk alongside people. I’m better because of it, and so is the work I do every day.”
Kameron Meredith
“On The Front Lines has played a pivotal role in my growth by equipping me with resources, mentorship, and opportunities to serve my community with integrity. Their commitment to meeting people where they are has empowered me to walk alongside others with compassion and impact.”
Shawna Gross-Weber
“Joining On The Front Lines Community Alliance (OTFLCA) gave me what I didn't even know I was searching for: a community of SUD professionals who carry lived experience alongside their credentials… We are no longer alone in our dual identities. We are a movement—proof that lived experience and professional excellence not only coexist but amplify each other.”
Jacob Yousif-Kelley
