Engaging Peer Support to Inspire Hope and Resilience
About Us
Western Canada Peer Training Society promotes social wellness and community connection through sharing our lived experience. We provide collaborative peer support education as well as continuing peer mentorship. We work from a strength-based approach and aim to serve all peer support workers in Western Canada.
Get involved by joining us at a peer support centric gathering.
Have a look at the resources we have to offer.
Member Spotlight
Katelyn Greer
Dixie Estrin is a dedicated Peer Support Worker, Educator and community leader with over 30 years supporting individuals. Drawing from her broad lived experience and an extensive professional background in Mental Health, Peer Support, Suicide Prevention Trainer, Facilitator and Coaching she has developed strong skills in connection; building meaningful environments where people feel safe, heard, and valued. Dixie currently
teaches Peer Support at the CMHA Edmonton and has facilitated Recovery College workshops seven years. As a lifelong learner she continues to embrace new opportunities to expand her learning. She is a dedicated volunteer with the Edmonton Folk Festival for 30+ years and is deeply committed to community and the creation of supportive environments where individuals can thrive.
Her work is rooted in authenticity, wisdom, and a genuine care for others. Dixie believes in the transformative power of presence. She understands that for many, having someone listen and care can be a vital step in supporting healing and forward movement. Her calm, intuitive nature and ability to remain grounded during times of stress allow her to support others with steadiness and empathy, even in moments of
crisis. Known for her genuine and approachable demeanor, Dixie builds trust easily and uses her lived experience and skills to empower others in their personal growth and recovery. She brings wisdom, compassion, and authenticity, creating a safe and welcoming environment where people feel heard, respected, and valued. She leads with care, creating spaces of connection, healing, and hope. Dixie believes in the expansion of Peer Support work to assist our communities.
Peer Support is Proven to Be Effective in These Ways
Based on Lived Experience
Lived experience refers to the personal knowledge gained from being directly impacted by a specific situation or circumstance. In healthcare, it specifically applies to individuals who have experienced life-altering health conditions, relied heavily on secondary health services, and faced power imbalances within the healthcare system. This perspective is valuable and offers unique insights for healthcare professionals and policymakers.
Saves $ Spent on Mental Health
Peer support saves money in mental health by reducing the need for costly emergency care, hospitalizations, and repeat crises. Early support from people with lived experience helps individuals stay engaged, address problems sooner, and follow through on care, which lowers relapse and readmission rates. Simply put, preventing crises through connection is far less expensive than responding after matters have reached emergency level.
WCPTS Membership Options
What does my membership get me?
Membership Length - 1 year
NOTE: All memberships purchased after the November AGM will be good from the time of membership until December 31st the end of the following year.
$5 - Volunteer Voting Member
In kind donation of 15 hours , attendance at a minimum 5 meetings per year plus attendance at the AGM.
$25 Education Voting Member
(There is no tax receipt for membership fees).
Click below to ...
Your Contribution Makes A Difference!
Help us Help Others
By donating to WCPTS you will be contributing to the advancement of peer support, an invaluable tool in the tool kit for connection and wellness.
CanadaHelps.org
WCPTS is proud to be registered with CanadaHelps.org. Click the button below to donate and receive your tax receipt immediately for donations of $20 or more.
$20 or more - Friend of the Society includes tax receipt
$100 or more - Supporting Community Partner includes tax receipt and recognition if desired
$800 - Includes tax receipt and recognition if desired
Registered Charitable Number: 79300 5117 RR0001
Our Generous Donors 2021-2025
