At the OC Health Care Agency’s Behavioral Health Services Mental Health Appreciation Night, an event celebrating exceptional behavioral health programs and employees across Orange County, Pacific Clinics Recovery Education Institute (REI) was honored with the Program of the Year award and Frankie Nelson, education program assistant director, was recognized as Staff Member of the Year. The celebration marked more than recognition — it affirmed the impact of peer-led recovery and the power of partnership.
For over a decade, REI has partnered with OC Health Care Agency to equip individuals with lived experience — and their family members — with the training and support needed to pursue meaningful careers in behavioral health. REI offers Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist (PSS) certification training, college-accredited courses and workforce development opportunities. In fiscal year 2023–24 alone, REI served over 500 students, hosted 217 trainings and achieved a 96% pass rate among those who sat for the state peer certification exam.
Michelle Tanner, education program director and keynote speaker, shared her lived experience at the event. Once unhoused and justice-involved, Michelle found hope through community resources and now leads a program that helps others find purpose through education and employment. “I now get to turn what I used to see as negative experiences into positive contributions to help others find recovery,” said Michelle.
Frankie’s contributions are equally inspiring. They’ve led more than 300 service sessions, helped 52 students gain employment, and mentored new employees and students through the PSS journey. Their trauma-informed, strengths-based approach creates job opportunities and renewed self-worth and confidence.
The recognition celebrates the power of collaboration with OC Health Care Agency, the transformational role of peer support and the people — like Frankie, Michelle and the entire team — who help others rewrite their stories every day.
“REI is more than a program,” said Jim Wainwright, senior clinical director. “It’s a launchpad for hope, dignity and work that truly makes a difference. Seeing individuals reclaim their confidence and purpose is one of the most inspiring parts of this work.”
