Lori Fischer, a CalMHSA-certified Peer Recovery Coach at Telecare's Orange County AOT CARE Act program, has been nominated for the Mental Health Association’s (MHA) 31st Annual Mental Health Community Service Award. This recognition honors her outstanding contributions in the Peer Professional category.

Lori’s journey in mental health advocacy is particularly inspiring. After spending 13 years at Patton State Hospital and participating in Telecare's STEPS program in Santa Ana, she joined the AOT team in February 2019. Her transition from program member to peer support professional demonstrates her dedication to peer advocacy and community support.

MHA will honor all nominees at their Celebration Luncheon on February 27, 2025, at The Turnip Rose Promenade in Costa Mesa. The event recognizes excellence across multiple categories, including professional, volunteer, and client “Hope and Courage” awards.

As MHA noted in their announcement: “The caliber of your contributions is great, as is the positive impact that you make for all of us who work to improve the quality of life for those with mental illness. Thank you for setting the benchmark for excellence."

Congratulations, Lori, on this well-deserved recognition!