You may see some new faces around Hazel Pittman Center these days, as the agency grows and we identify more ways to serve Chester County.
Joey Bell is a Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) who came to HPC in May 2022. He is from Kershaw County and feels a calling to advocate for those who, as he once was, are trapped in a cycle of substance abuse. As a CPSS, Joey helps people become and stay engaged in the recovery process – reducing the likelihood of relapse.
Another new Peer Support Specialist in Chester is Carol Grant. Carol was a long-time employee at Keystone Substance Abuse Services in Rock Hill until her retirement several years ago. She and her husband are active and beloved members of their communities. Joey and Carol’s work with patients revolves around shared understanding, empowerment, mentorship, and skill building.
Shaylyn Forte joined the Hazel Pittman Center Team in August 2022. She is a recent graduate of the University of South Carolina’s Arnold School of Public Health. As a Prevention Specialist, Shaylyn will be engaged in primary prevention efforts – preventing substance misuse before it occurs. Much of her time will be dedicated to leading the county’s middle school students through a health education and life skill development curriculum, but she will also assist with other department efforts – including supporting the Youth Advisory Boards, community coalitions, environmental prevention efforts, and community overdose education/naloxone distribution.