Build a Career Rooted in Recovery

Carroll County Peer Workforce Program

A RAMP Grant Initiative

Become a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist

The Carroll County Peer Workforce Program provides free and low-cost access to training, certification, supervised work experience, and employment pathways — so your lived recovery experience becomes a career helping others.

Who Can Apply?
Get Started - Call 410-386-2820
two men walking city

About the Program

Turning Lived Experience Into Hope & Opportunity

The Carroll County Peer Workforce Program is an initiative of the Westminster Rescue Mission, launched with RAMP grant funding from Maryland's Opioid Restitution Fund. It is designed to remove the financial and logistical barriers that have historically prevented people in recovery from becoming credentialed peer recovery professionals.

Certified Peer Recovery Specialists (CPRS) use their own recovery journeys to help others navigate substance use and mental health challenges. This program creates a complete, supported path — from recruitment through employment.

  • "Until now, individuals seeking peer certification have faced financial barriers and limitations in terms of available training locally. We have designed a strong program with partner agencies to leverage their areas of expertise and align our efforts, to support the recovery community and provide jobs right here in Carroll County."

    — Stephanie Halley, CEO, Westminster Rescue Mission

How It Works

Your Path to Certification

1
Recruitment & Referral
Identified by WRM, Carroll County Health Department, local recovery organizations, or self-refer.
2
Intake & Eligibility
Intake appointment with Carroll County Workforce Development (CCWD). Complete assessments and submit eligibility documentation.
4
Supervised Work Experience
Complete required service hours at partner worksites — WRM, On Our Own of Carroll County, or Maryland Treatment Centers.
5
CPRS Certification & Employment
Earn your CPRS credential and receive job placement support to launch your career in Carroll County's recovery workforce.

Eligibility

Who Can Apply?

This program is for adults in Carroll County — and across Maryland — who are in long-term recovery and ready to help others on their journey. Review the requirements below.

 

Program Eligibility Requirements

  • ✓
    Self-identify as a person in long-term recovery from substance use disorder
  • ✓
    Minimum of one year of sobriety (participants receiving prescribed medications may be considered eligible)
  • ✓
    Be at least 18 years of age
  • ✓
    Demonstrate basic reading and writing proficiency (minimum 9th-grade level on a CASAS assessment)
  • ✓
    Possess a high school diploma or GED
  • ✓
    Be a United States citizen or permanent resident authorized to work in the U.S.
  • ✓
    Be a Maryland resident — priority given to Carroll County residents

Note on Background Checks: In line with common peer recovery hiring practices, a background check will be conducted. Certain charges may affect program eligibility. Please speak with a program representative for guidance.

two women at table

How to Apply?

Interested in more information?
Questions about the Program?
Ready to sign up?

Please contact Carroll County Workforce Development (CCWD) for more information and to schedule an appointment with Employment Services staff.

During this appointment, you will complete an Initial Assessment to assist staff in coordinating services, making recommendations, and facilitating referrals to the partner organizations.

To get started call 410-386-2820.

In collaboration with:

Funded by:

Westminster Rescue Mission

This project is supported in partnership by the Maryland Department of Labor and Maryland's Office of Overdose Response.