Michael J Werner, CPRS has been an Ohio Certified Peer Recovery Supporter for over six years working as an independent contractor for the Sandusky Artisan Recovery Community Center (SARCC). He is Co-Founder and Executive Director of Taking Back Ohio (TBO) a 501(c)3 Ohio nonprofit advocating for and serving those in recovery for both MI’s and SUD’s. Michael Werner is an honorably discharged United States Army combat veteran. He deployed twice in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and was awarded numerous medals and accommodations for his meritorious service. With over 600 combat missions under his belt, he brings a unique awareness to what it means to be a trauma survivor to his work as a PRS. Michael also serves as a Dual Diagnosis support group facilitator at SARCC and at the Sandusky Ohio Veterans Home, a Veteran Peer Recovery Supporter at the Erie County Jail and is on the Erie County Ohio Veteran Court Planning Committee. Michael is Trauma-Informed and a Mental Health First Aid certified trainer. In addition to his unparalleled lived experience, he recently graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2023 with his Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Bowling Green State University.