Ep. 129 I can’t help but wonder—how different would my journey have been if I’d had a Companion Peer when I was struggling?
When I was at the peak of my own mental health challenges, what I needed most wasn’t another prescription or appointment—it was a person. Someone to sit with me, listen without judgment, and remind me that I wasn’t alone. That’s exactly what Compeer offers.
In this week’s episode of the Healthy Illness Podcast, I talk with Sara Passamonte, CEO of Compeer Rochester, about the life-changing impact of peer companionship. Since the 1970s, Compeer has been matching volunteers with people living with mental health challenges—building real relationships that foster hope, healing, and growth for both sides.
We dive into Compeer’s inspiring origin story, its programs for youth, families, and veterans, and the ways even an hour a week can transform lives. This is the kind of community-based support I wish I’d known about years ago—and the reason this podcast exists: to let you know that you’re not alone, and recovery is possible.
✨ Key Takeaways:
Peer companionship addresses the human side of mental health recovery—connection, trust, and hope.
Volunteering benefits everyone involved, improving emotional and physical health.
Compeer offers free programs for youth, families, and veterans.
Even a small time commitment can have a huge impact.
Support doesn’t always come from a clinic—sometimes it comes from a friend who’s been there.
🔗 Resources:
Compeer Rochester Website
Compeer International Website
🎙️ Hosted by Coach Kelly Marie, founder of Front Seat Life LLC
📲 Instagram @thefrontseatlife FB @thefrontseatlife
Email KellyMarie@FrontSeatLife.com
🎧 Produced & edited by JazzCast Pros
🔗 Click Here to rate & review on Apple Podcasts
🚀 Rate & Share this Podcast from Spotify
🔐 Add this show to your collection on Pandora.
💪 Support the Show with a one-time donation on PayPal
This conversation is just the beginning. Next week, Sara returns to share her own mental health journey—the experiences that shaped her, the challenges she’s overcome, and why she’s so passionate about helping others through Compeer.
Subscribe now so you don’t miss Part 2 of Friendship as Medicine.
Chapters:
0:00 – Why Peer Support Can Add Years to Your Life4:47 – How Compeer Turns Socializing into Mental Health Support9:16 – Behind the Scenes: Matching & Training Compeer Volunteers12:11 – The Double Impact: Helping Others While Healing Yourself16:38 – Support for All: Families, Veterans & More20:08 – Veteran Healing Through Friendship & Fun23:24 – Expanding Veteran Services Across New York24:07 – One Hour a Week That Can Change a Life
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices