In 2006, Cherene founded Promise Resource Network (PRN), one of NC’s very few completely peer-run organizations and the first one to offer peer support in our state. Eleven years later, PRN now works with 400 people through its 7 peer programs in Charlotte, NC with Cherene as its CEO.

Through her own personal experience of having numerous mental health diagnoses that started in her early teens, Cherene knows what it feels like to not quite fit in.  She rebelled against the labels, low expectations and victimization and has spent the remainder of her life striving to understand how people, including herself, can be faced with significant life issues, yet be able to thrive.   Cherene is so grateful to have had 23 years of meeting and connecting with others that have gifted her with allowing her to be a part of their recovery who have taught her the real meaning of recovery and the true power of peer support.

Now, Cherene is a national and international recovery consultant and works with professionals, systems, states, organizations and peers to understand and facilitate recovery as well as elevate the profession of peer support to ensure that its integrity and authenticity are maintained. Cherene has been providing peer support training throughout the country since 2007 and has written several peer support curricula and presented at numerous conferences.