Our Mission
The Mental Health Empowerment Project offers education, training, skill building and support to help you find your unique voice, connect to your personal power, and find your strength through Peer Support.
Founded in 1988, MHEP is a statewide, not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization led by individuals with direct lived experience. MHEP supports people in their recovery to reclaim personal power, amplify their voices, and build community.
Board of Directors
The Mental Health Empowerment Project is pleased to introduce the individuals who guide the direction and encourage the growth of our organization.
PRESIDENT
Michael Rhodes-Devey, Esq.
VICE PRESIDENT
Guy Fessenden
TREASURER
Patricia Dowse, MS
SECRETARY
Dennis Green
Leadership Team
Amy Colesante
Chief Executive Officer
Keysha Cotton
New York Peer Specialist Certification Board (NYPSCB)
Certification Coordinator
Victor Clark
Director, R.I.S.E. Center
Bill Gamble
Director of Statewide Services
Zach Garafalo
Director, Strategy & Innovation
Olivia Hutter
Assistant Director, R.I.S.E. Center
Rich O’Connor
Director of Operations
Rob Rodger
Director of Peer Services for Albany and Rensselaer Counties