Libbey Sanford

Libbey_Photo

  • What does your organization do?

    We serve youth and their families struggling with substance misuse. We provide a safe recovery oriented academic environment at UHS and we also provide peer support services for teens and their families in the evenings and on the weekends.

  • How did you become interested in this work?

    It is my passion to help teens and their families thrive. I am in long-term recovery and wanted to help others find the same health and wellness I did. My struggles started as an adolescent, so I can resonate with the students we serve.

  • What drives your passion?

    I know what it feels like to struggle and lack connection. I want to help the students build their worth and help them cultivate self-love and self-worth. I was them, so I have patience and compassion for what they are going through. My passion lies in assisting students in navigating the complexities of mental health and substance misuse. We move the needle just a bit in their life so that they can grow into thriving young adults.

  • Do you have a mentor or a role model?

    Yes - Julie McElrath and Laura Kelly.

  • What's the biggest challenge in your work?

    The learning curve and the stress that comes with being a leader of a youth substance misuse program. The students we work with need us to show up as our whole selves, so really focusing on self-care and decompression techniques is key for me.

  • What's the best advice that you have ever received?

    Put the students first and always think about safety.

  • What are your top tips for new Executive Directors?

    1. Be patient with yourself – it’s a lot to take in!
    2. Create a culture of trust and acceptance to help employees reach their potential.
    3. Soak in as much learning as you can and keep an open mind.