Dave

Community Resources Guide
Knoxville, TN

Before joining firsthand, Dave worked as a CPRS (Certified Peer Recovery Specialist) focused on helping people who were in treatment for opioid abuse seeking a healthy, sober and productive life. The work was rewarding, but demanding due to the ambitious goals and limited resources of the organization. Dave has had a diverse career, including work in the computer industry, construction industry, and financial services.

Dave has a long history of involvement with the recovery community and has facilitated AA meetings into state prison for about 15 years. He served as a volunteer and board member at the Volunteer Ministry Center in Knoxville.  His work involved interviewing homeless individuals and helping them connect them with resources and housing programs. 

Dave has a multi generational family history of depression and alcohol abuse. He has utilized therapy and some medications. Over the years he has found that natural remedies such as exercise, diet, and supplements have helped him maintain a steady level of wellness greater than that afforded by prescription drugs. 

Dave finds the work he does to be extremely gratifying in finding ways to improve the lives of individuals he engages. He finds that when people accept his sincerity in wanting their input, it can lift them up and be very encouraging. He appreciates the opportunity to make an impact on people's lives and offer them hope. 

Dave’s advice for individuals dealing with serious mental or physical illness is to ask for help and not try to figure things out on their own. He has seen that those who isolate and try to navigate challenges alone often struggle more than those who ask for assistance and explore options.

Dave is passionate about sailing, photography, and travel. He’s very proud of his 50+ year marriage. He also enjoys the success of his two children and four grandchildren. In all his varied experience, Dave believes his most important focus is to take actions that positively impact the lives of others.