MOBILE COUNTY, Ala. (WKRG) — The Mobile County Health Department’s Overdose Prevention Team was recognized for their “outstanding work” at a state conference.

According to a news release, the team attended the Alabama Department of Mental Health’s Peer Certification Conference from March 26 to 29 in Bessemer. MCHD Peer Recovery Specialists John Richardson and Dierdre Johnson participated in the conference that recognizes the work of peers.

The release noted that the MCHD team was awarded out of over 300 peers in the state.

“We are thrilled to announce that John Richardson received the Excellence Service Award for ‘Going Above and Beyond the Call of Duty for Recovery Support’ at the conference,” Overdose Prevention Program Manager Danielle Simpson said.

She added, “This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, knowledge, and leadership in the field of peer recovery.”

Aside from being an opportunity to be recognized for their work, the conference provided MCHD Peer Recovery Specialists the opportunity to freshen up on their skills.

“The conference provided an opportunity for them to renew their certification and learn about the latest advancements and best practices in peer recovery,” Simpson said. “Additionally, Deirdre Johnson serves on the hospitality committee annually for this conference.”

For more information about MCHD’s team that is equipped to support overdose prevention and help participants through recovery, call 251-410-6322 or email OverdosePrevention@mchd.org.