Topic 1: Why Cultural Competency Matters in Peer Support

Topic 1: Why Cultural Competency Matters in Peer Support

Welcome to Lesson 7, where we explore the role of cultural competency in ethical peer support.

Recovery is deeply personal, and every individual brings unique experiences, values, and cultural influences into their journey. As peer support specialists, we must ensure that our approach is inclusive, respectful, and adaptable to meet the diverse needs of those we serve.

Cultural competency is not just about understanding different cultural backgrounds—it is about recognizing our own biases, fostering cultural humility, and actively creating recovery spaces where all individuals feel safe and valued. In this lesson, we will discuss ethical strategies for cultural competency and how to provide effective, inclusive peer support.

By the end of this session, you will have the tools to navigate cultural differences ethically and ensure that your peer support work is grounded in respect, equity, and inclusivity. Let’s begin!

Calls to Action Poll

Strongly disagreeDisagreeNeutralAgreeStrongly agree
Peer mentor training
Group facilitator training
Crisis responder training
Toolkits or educational resources
Strongly disagreeDisagreeNeutralAgreeStrongly agree
Templates for operations (e.g., reports, outreach plans)
Apps for scheduling, communication, or service delivery
Centralized platforms or systems to manage services
Tech literacy and support for RCO staff/volunteers
Strongly disagreeDisagreeNeutralAgreeStrongly agree
Public education materials about recovery
Anti-stigma messaging and campaigns
Community presentations or media outreach
Engagement with schools, employers, and faith-based organizations
Strongly disagreeDisagreeNeutralAgreeStrongly agree
Transitional or supportive housing models
Second-chance hiring programs
Job training and resume support
Partnerships with local employers
Strongly disagreeDisagreeNeutralAgreeStrongly agree
Volunteer recruitment and engagement
Matching professional skills (e.g., legal, marketing) with org needs
Platform or system to manage and track volunteer involvement
Training and orientation tools for volunteers