Join host Christopher Archiopoli on King County Recovery Conversations as we sit down with Michelle McClendon, a powerful advocate for justice-involved individuals and reentry support. Michelle’s story takes listeners from her early struggles with incarceration and homelessness to her determination to overcome systemic barriers in employment, education, and housing. Through her leadership at Civil Survival and Purpose Dignity Action, she sheds light on the transformative impact of mentorship, policy change, and community-driven initiatives.

In this episode, Michelle reveals how advocacy, changing the narrative around criminal records, and grassroots programs like the WISH housing initiative helped pave her journey from despair to homeownership and stability. She speaks candidly about the reality of food insecurity, the necessity of social services, and the strength found in collaboration and civic engagement. Tune in for a raw, inspiring conversation that uncovers hope in the face of adversity and offers practical takeaways on breaking cycles of stigma and injustice.

Resources from the episode:

• Learn more about Michelle’s work at Civil Survival: https://civilsurvival.org/

• Learn about Purpose Dignity Action and the LEAD program: https://wearepda.org/

• Learn more about King County Recovery Coalition and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.kcrecovery.org/

• The King County Recovery Coalition is a regional coalition of the Washington Recovery Alliance (WRA). Learn more about the WRA and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.washingtonrecoveryalliance.org/

• If you are experiencing substance, use disorder, problem gambling, and/or a mental health challenge, please visit the ⁠Washington Recovery Helpline⁠ for resources and a 24-hour helpline: https://www.warecoveryhelpline.org/

King County Recovery Conversations is a podcast on a mission to celebrate recovery and help break the stigma of addiction and mental health. In each episode, policy experts, program professionals, and those with lived experience join host Heather Venegas to share stories of hope, resilience, and healing in our community. Together, we’ll learn about the various pathways to recovery – and the services and support systems available to anyone impacted by addiction and mental health. Whether you're someone seeking recovery, someone in recovery, a family member or friend, or a healthcare professional, this podcast is for you.

Connect with King County Recovery Coalition ⁠online⁠, on Facebook (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠), or on YouTube (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠).

If you have feedback or show ideas, contact host Heather Venegas at ⁠heather@kcrecovery.org⁠.

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/king-county-recovery/message