Peer Assistance Services, Inc.

A nonprofit organization

We provide evidence based prevention early intervention to adult populations, treating substance use as a preventable health issue. At the core of PAS are the values of integrity, respect, compassion, perseverance and vision. We incorporate these values into all that we do in the service of our mission.

PAS is managed by an executive team that includes the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Finance Officer and Operations Director. The governing structure includes an elected board of directors, representative of the populations served. Board fiduciary responsibilities are met through review of financials, approval of the annual independent audit, and review of CEO performance. PAS has a diverse staff with preparation in nursing, public health, mental health, social work, education, substance abuse prevention and treatment, grant and contract management, finance, and accounting.

Testimonials

The work we do is best captured by the stories of those we serve. As such, we would like to share the story of one of our clients:

"Dear Peer Assistance Services,

As a veterinarian and an alcoholic, I cannot stress enough the impact that you have had on my recovery and professional development. When I first came to Peer Assistance, I only had a few months of sobriety. Although I was already active in AA, I was not working as a veterinarian nor did I know any other healthcare professionals in recovery. I was particularly apprehensive about trying to find a job as a veterinarian since it would be necessary to inform my employer about my alcoholism and resulting contract with PAS.

With the encouragement of your staff and the members of my peer support group, I obtained the courage and knowledge that I needed to re-enter the workplace. With their help, I have learned not to be ashamed of my disease. I have also come to realize that many other healthcare professionals, including dentists, pharmacists, nurses and other veterinarians, have been in my shoes, and are currently gainfully (and happily) employed with their employers' full knowledge of their disease and recovery.

Over three years ago I didn't know whether I would live or die. I had been hospitalized five times for alcohol poisoning, been in three inpatient treatment centers, had lost my driver's license as well as my license to practice veterinary medicine. My family had practically given up on me ever getting sober. Today I have been sober for three years, I have a job practicing veterinary medicine, and am healthy physically and psychologically. In short, I have never in my entire life been healthier or happier than I am today. Programs like Peer Assistance Services have played an integral part in my willingness and desire to stay sober and recover.

-A recovering veterinarian"

Mission

Peer Assistance Services, Inc. is dedicated to quality, accessible intervention and prevention services in workplaces and communities, focused on substance use and related issues.

Background Statement

In 1983, a group of nurses met to discuss the problems faced by their colleagues with drug or alcohol problems. At that time, nurses with substance use disorders were publicly sanctioned and there was no mechanism or program to assist them with treatment options, monitoring of safety to practice, professional peer support or return to safe practice. The lack of any such program resulted in a great waste of education, skill, experience and life.

With $300 in start-up funds from the Colorado Nurses Association, we incorporated in April 1984. Since that time, services have been expanded to provide comprehensive case management to a wider range of licensed professionals including dentists, pharmacists, mental health practitioners, and veterinarians.

In an effort to reach individuals before they develop substance use disorders, we have expanded services to include substance abuse prevention and early intervention programming. Currently, we provide prevention approaches for parents and caregivers and prevention for working adults. Early intervention services are provided through training and technical assistance on Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) for health care providers. We are also pleased to provide a new public awareness campaign focused on alcohol use and health: One Degree, Shift the Influence.

Organization Data

Summary

Organization name

Peer Assistance Services, Inc.

other names

PAS, N.U.R.S.E.S. of Colorado Corporation

Year Established

1984

Tax id (EIN)

84-0942147

Category

Health Care

Address

2170 S. Parker Road Suite 229
Denver, CO 80231

Service areas

Denver County, CO, US

Phone

303-369-0039

Fax

303-369-0982