APAC Seat Applications have openings for Region 5!
- Region Five: Arkansas, Ashley, Bradley, Chicot, Cleveland, Desha, Drew, Lee, Lincoln, Monroe, Phillips, Prairie, and St. Francis Counties
Ensuring a quality state system
The Arkansas Peer Advisory Committee (APAC) serves as a key resource for the DHS/Office of Substance Abuse and Mental Health (DHS/OSAMH) on all matters related to peer recovery. APAC members include the Department of Human Services (DHS) Office of Recovery and up to 15 community stakeholders, who are certified Peer Workers with extensive knowledge and experience. This includes evaluating and approving the eligibility of Peer Recovery Supervisors (PRS) prior to their certification testing and approving proposed continued education hours necessary for Peer Workers to receive accreditation.
APAC Mission Statement: APAC unites the skills, passions, and experiences of Peer Workers through outreach and advocating for peer services to provide career and personal development to ensure the sustainability of the peer recovery profession.
APAC Vision Statement: To be the subject matter experts for peer services while upholding the ethical responsibilities of peer support in the State of Arkansas.
Chair: Casey Copeland, PRS, NCPRSS
Casey Copeland is the Director of Recovery Services for the State of Arkansas and a Peer Support Peer Supervisor. Living in long-term recovery from Substance Use Disorder since 2017, Casey began his path as a Peer Support Specialist, known for his genuine empathy and knack for connecting with people battling substance use and mental health challenges. His first year of recovery was dedicated to volunteering with various organizations in Central Arkansas.
Once he achieved abstinence from substances, Casey met and married his wonderful wife, Megan, and in 2020, they celebrated the birth of their daughter, Adilynn. Deeply committed to his faith, Casey gives all the credit for his achievements to God and stays focused on his recovery by actively participating in a recovery program. When he’s not working, Casey loves spending quality time with family and friends, working out, and enjoying the great outdoors. He’s also a deacon at his church, which brings him great joy.
Casey has worn many hats over the years, including Director of Arkansas Peers Achieving Recovery Together (APART), Director of Rock of Hope transitional houses, co-founder and president of The Copeland Foundation (TCF), and Chairman of the Arkansas Peer Advisory Committee (APAC). Now, as the Director of Peer Services for the State of Arkansas, Casey has played a key role in creating, managing, and rolling out numerous programs statewide. His efforts have made a big splash in improving substance use and mental health services in Arkansas, championing inclusivity, and empowering people on their recovery journeys.
Region 1
Joseph Cruz, PRS, NCPRSS
Joseph Cruz is a person with over a decade of experience in long term recovery from substance misuse disorder and mental health. He started his peer recovery support journey in 2019 and received certification during November 2020. Following up with advanced certification, then peer recovery supervisor April 2023. He currently has over two hundred hours of specialized training during his tenure. Joseph has been a speaker for several panels as a peer specialist representative. And currently he serves as a committee member for APAC.
Dangie Casper, PRS, NCPRSS
Dangie Casper is a dedicated advocate in Peer Support as a Peer Recovery Supervisor. With a wealth of lived and professional experience, Dangie is committed to advocating for individuals in addiction recovery, empowering them to set and achieve meaningful goals essential for their recovery journey to wellness. Dangie is also a Trainer of Trainers for the core & advanced levels of peer support and Justice Involved Peer Specialist across the state of Arkansas as well as Narcan administration, demonstrating her dedication to equipping others with the necessary skills to support those in recovery. Dangie earned her national certification from the National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors and has a strong educational background in nursing and Sports Medicine. In addition to her professional roles, Dangie is an active member of the Arkansas Peer Advisory Committee and serves as the activities chair for her 12-step recovery group, reflecting her commitment to community engagement. With 6 years of sustained recovery, Dangie embodies the resilience and strengths she seeks to inspire in others with her passion and expertise is making a difference and a meaningful impact in the lives of those she serves. Dangie Casper is a committed Peer Recovery Supervisor, bringing both personal experience and professional skills to her advocacy in Peer Support. Her primary focus is empowering individuals in addiction recovery to define and achieve significant recovery goals that promote overall wellness. Dangie acts as a crucial link between peers and service providers, fostering effective communication and teamwork among various stakeholders, including judges, community leaders, law enforcement, first responders, and healthcare providers. Through these collaborations, she works to build understanding and transform societal views on addiction. Her work extends beyond individual empowerment to systemic change, striving to create a more supportive and informed environment for those navigating recovery. Dangie’s multifaceted approach, blending her personal journey with professional training and advocacy, positions her as a pivotal figure in the landscape of addiction recovery.
Julio Garcia, SIT, NCPRSS
Julio Garcia is an Advance Peer Recovery Support Specialist currently employed at Washington County Drug and Treatment Court. As a pe with lived experiences from early life traumas, substance use, residential instabilities, justice involved circumstances, and other mental health disorders. Julio understands the many pathways to a meaningful life of freedom, wellness, and purpose.
As part of his testimony, Julio volunteers and displays unwavering commitment to the Peers in the Community where he began his spiritual journey.
Facilitating recovery groups where he once considered a “homeless shelter” he once lived in, is now a goal oriented transitional/recovery facility for the men he serves. His lived experiences allow him to offer a unique cultural perspective built on respect, effective listening, and mutual empowerment. Julio also assists Peers develop personalized recovery plans, overcome obstacles, and reduce stigma by utilizing practical support and the belief that sustained recovery is possible.
Region 2
Les Cupp, PRS, NCPRSS, CS
Les is a Peer Recovery Peer Supervisor, Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, and Certified Clinical Supervisor. He is a person of long-term recovery and has more than two decades of experience as a counselor and clinical supervisor for substance use disorders. He contributed knowledge and expertise to the development of the Arkansas Model for Peer Support curriculum.
He is currently the peer support coordinator at the Arkansas Center for Health Improvement and is a member of the Arkansas Substance Abuse Certification Board.
Les grew up in Morrilton and has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Arkansas. He is married to his beautiful wife, Phèdre, and has two sons, Louden and Finley. He enjoys camping and spending time outdoors.
Shalinda Woolbright, PRS
Shalinda Woolbright is the founder and executive director of NEA Divine Intervention women’s sober living and community peer centers. Her substance use disorder began at age 17, and she acquired four probation officers, one parole officer, and a $22,000 debt for restitution fees. After losing custody of her children for the fourth time, she was determined to find a new way to live. In long-term recovery, she gives back to her community in her role as a Peer Recovery Peer Supervisor.
Ashley Sanders, SIT, NCPRSS
Ashley Sanders is a Supervisor in Training and a Certified Advanced Peer Specialist who works for the Izard County Sheriff’s Department, the 16th Judicial District, and in local overdose response efforts. She is actively involved in several county health coalitions and is a proud member of CADCA (Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America). Ashley also partners with various organizations to support prevention and education initiatives to help reduce stigma in communities. Ashley is a trainer of trainers for Peer recovery in Arkansas. After nearly 20 years in active addiction, Ashley has turned her lived experience into a powerful tool for change. She is deeply passionate about helping justice-involved individuals explore and find their own pathways to recovery. Her dedication is rooted in compassion, authenticity, and a firm belief in second chances. Outside of her professional work, Ashley is a leader in Celebrate recovery, on the board for the Women of refuge delivered ministry. She enjoys kayaking and cherishes time spent with her family and friends!
Region 3
Monte Payne, PRS, NCPRSS
Edward L Payne was born in Los Angeles an his friends called him Monte. Monte graduated from High School and went to the Military where he started drinking and was discharged with a entry level separation. Monte was dejected and started on the road of addiction smoking crack. Monte suffered through years of addiction on the streets of Los Angeles. When he finally decided to make a try for a new life, Monte came to Arkansas …. in the trunk of a car to escape murders drug dealers looking for revenge! He tried, but his new life was not to be. Within a few years, Monte was back in the iron grip of crack cocaine. He was once more on the streets, in Arkansas this time.
In 2004, Monte entered Hoover Treatment Center and began a new life in earnest this time. He did so well that, in 2007, the Courts awarded him custody of his then 12-year-old son. Monte raised his son and put him through college at UCA. Pretty impressive for a man who spent years on the streets struggling with his addiction. Equally impressive is the fact that in 2007 Monte also began working at the Hoover Treatment Center as a case manager. He worked in treatment housing and after care and, over time, has helped thousands of individuals get sober. Monte’s life continues its upward spiral. In 2018 Monte began working as a Peer Support Specialist and trainer and, here, found his niche. Monte has trained more Peers in Arkansas than any other trainer by far. In 2019 he was named Trainer of the Year at the first Arkansas Peer Support Conference. Monte is well-credentialed and extensively active in his community:
- Monte is a certified Narcan trainer.
- He is a member of Community Health Worker’s Certification Committee
- He is a UAMS grant reviewer.
- He is a member of TRI (Translation Research Institute).
- He is on the board of the Arkansas Peer Advisory Committee.
- He is a member of the Arkansas Peers Achieving Recovery Together Coalition.
- He is on the board of Better Community Development
- He is a Peer Recovery Peer Supervisor.
- He is currently working at Wolfe Street Foundation as the Peer Program Manager
Stacey Franks, PRS, NCPRSS, CIT, MA
Stacey Franks is a person in long-term recovery and works as a PRS (Peer Recovery Supervisor) at River Valley Medical Wellness. She is passionate about using her lived experience to help as many people as possible overcome the obstacles of substance use disorder.
Stacey’s role at River Valley Medical Wellness involves connecting individuals to community resources to help them build a foundation for sustainable, long-term recovery. Additionally, she is active in the State of Arkansas’ Peer Recovery Initiatives, serving on APAC, the Arkansas Peer Advisory Committee. She is a Trainer of Trainers for the state of Arkansas, and she trains others to become Peer Recovery Support Specialists.
Stacey is also actively involved in her community, leading a recovery group called Life Recovery Cabot at New Life Church in Cabot. She sits on the board of directors for two different non-profits. Stacey loves the outdoors, traveling, and spending time with her family. She’s quirky and fun-loving and enjoys the privilege of serving others.
Justin Works, SIT, NCPRSS
Justin Works is a Peer Recovery Specialist with nine years in long-term recovery. His own experiences with substance use disorder and recovery led him to begin his peer support journey in 2023, where he quickly found purpose in walking alongside others. He is currently a Peer Supervisor in Training and an active member of NAADAC, reflecting his dedication to professional growth and ethical standards in the field. Justin is pursuing a Bachelor of Social Work at Grand Canyon University to build on his lived experience and strengthen his ability to advocate for peers and advance the peer profession in Arkansas. He is also contributing to early efforts to develop a Veteran Peer curriculum in collaboration with DHS, helping shape future opportunities for peers through lived experience. His focus is on building the peer profession by promoting high-quality training, ethical standards, and recognition of peers as essential partners in recovery systems.
As a member of the Arkansas Peer Advisory Committee, Justin seeks to ensure that peer voices remain central in shaping statewide recovery efforts. He views his role as both an advocate and a bridge builder, committed to protecting the integrity of peer work while expanding opportunities for peers to grow in leadership and service. Outside of his professional and academic pursuits, Justin enjoys being outdoors, spending time with his dogs, and sharing life with his fiancé and biggest supporter, Aaron.
Region 4
Carlotta Powell, PRS, NCPRSS
Carlotta Powell is the Executive Director and founder of H.E.A.R.D. She has over 25 years of recovery. Powell worked in the treatment setting for twenty-one years, with the last five years as the Director of Substance abuse services. Powell currently runs a recovery residence as well as an RCO.
Powell was one of the first peers to be trained in the state of Arkansas by the Appalachian Consulting Group out of Georgia. Powell went on to become a trainer of Trainers for the state of Arkansas. She was instrumental in the development of the Arkansas 3 tier model for peers and was in the work groups that developed the training manuals for all three tiers. Powell is currently a peer support supervisor as well as holding the NAADAC credential for peer support. Powell is also a Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS), Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), and the Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) through NAADAC.
Powell currently serves on the Arkansas Substance Abuse Certification Board (ASACB), is Vice President of the Arkansas Association of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors (AAADAC) and serves as region 7 Representative for the Arkansas Peer Advisory Committee (APAC).
Lynette Hanley, PRS, NCPRSS
Lynette Hanley has been in long-term recovery for six years and is currently an Advanced Peer Specialist and Supervisor in Training. Since March 2021, she has worked as a Peer Specialist for the RSAT program at the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office. In addition to her role there, she serves as a Region 4 representative on the APAC committee, contributing her expertise and dedication to her community.
Haley Rudd, SIT, NCPRSS
Haley Rudd is a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist and Supervisor in Training who brings both professional expertise and lived experience to her work with justice-involved individuals. She is in long-term recovery and is deeply committed to walking alongside others on their recovery journeys, using her own experiences to foster hope, reduce stigma, and promote sustainable change.
Through her work at the Eighteenth Judicial District East Drug Court, Haley supports participants by building authentic relationships, connecting them to community resources, and encouraging personal accountability and self-empowerment. She believes that recovery is strengthened through compassion, consistency, and collaboration, and she is passionate about helping individuals navigate the justice system while reclaiming their lives.
As a Supervisor in Training, Haley is focused on developing strong leadership skills and supporting the growth of peer professionals, while continuing to advocate for best practices in peer-led services. Outside of her professional role, she enjoys meeting new people, building meaningful connections, along with taking walks and trying new foods.
Region 5
Desi Sims, MA, PRS, NCPRSS
Desi Sims is a resolute Peer Recovery Supervisor with over 25 years of personal recovery and extensive experience in recovery services, supervision, and organizational leadership. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Biblical Studies, equipping him with a holistic, trauma‑informed, and spiritually grounded approach to peer recovery and community development.
Desi currently serves as the Peer Recovery Supervisor at NEA Divine Intervention in Jonesboro, Arkansas. In this role, he provides peer supervision and oversees the day-to-day operations of the organization.
In addition to his recovery leadership, Desi is an Ordained Minister, Dean of Education for the Phillips County Ministerial Alliance, and Chairperson of the Board of Directors for ONCHC, an Arkansas community health clinic. He is also an active member of the Arkansas Peer Advisory Committee (APAC) and a long‑standing member of the NAACP, reflecting his deep commitment to service, equity, and social justice.
Desi continues to expand his impact across Arkansas through peer supervision, faith‑based leadership, advocacy, and community development initiatives, particularly in the Delta region. He currently pastors two churches and is working toward establishing a third, integrating recovery principles, spiritual formation, and community empowerment to address local and systemic challenges.
Desi holds the credential of National Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist (NCPRSS), affirming his expertise, professionalism, and dedication to advancing peer‑led recovery services statewide.
Bonnie Baker, APRS, NCPRSS
Bonnie Baker is a Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist for the 1st Judicial District Specialty Courts pursuing her Advanced Certification as an Advanced Peer In Training. She is a person in long term recovery from Substance Use Disorder, homelessness, unemployment and hopelessness. In 2016 she saw the Spark of Hope that her life could be different and went from hopelessness to hope through help from God and a supportive group around her. In 2019 she entered into a Life Recovery Program when she realized she needed a higher level of help and has been in sustained recovery since, 1st working and living at the recovery center she completed for two years in Paragould and soon after working at a women’s reentry in Jonesboro till her move to Forrest City at the end of 2022.
She was first introduced to the Peer Recovery Profession in early 2022 when a Justice Involved PRSS helped to get a loved one into treatment. The support and compassion that was shown in the situation inspired her to pursue the training herself. She then married and joined her husband in Forrest City where they participate in the local recovery community and get inspired everyday by the resilience of people in recovery.
