Substance Use Disorder Professional Apprentice: Elizabeth Napoleon

Substance Use Disorder Professional Apprentice: Elizabeth Napoleon

Our Apprentices say it best!

Elizabeth’s Success Story

Elizabeth Napoleon, a mom, cycle breaker, and Suquamish Tribal member, is a Substance Use Disorder Professional Apprentice at the Suquamish Tribal Wellness Center.

Elizabeth chose to work in behavioral health because she knows firsthand how deeply addiction impacts every generation.  

“I wanted to break that cycle, not just for myself and my child, but for others who are still struggling. Becoming a counselor allows me to turn my lived experience into a tool for healing, showing others that recovery is possible and that they are not alone.”

Overcoming her own challenges with addiction and the weight of generational trauma and self-doubt, Elizabeth is walking a new path. She learned about the apprenticeship program through her tribe’s network of support services and Brian Burwell, instructor and Clinical Supervisor at the Suquamish Tribal Wellness Center. 

“As soon as I learned it was an opportunity to earn-while-you-learn and grow within my own community, I knew it was the path I wanted to take. Balancing school, work, and family hasn’t been easy, but the apprenticeship program has given me structure, financial support, and hands-on experience that made it possible to keep moving forward instead of giving up.” 

The apprenticeship program offers wrap-around support and is structured to help apprentices succeed through the apprenticeship and beyond. They get paid through their training and earn college credit. The cohort model also creates a built-in community. Having a supportive community has been essential in Elizabeth’s success. She continues to push herself and follow her purpose in helping others.  

“My biggest motivation has been my child, who reminds me daily why I chose to break generational cycles. I’ve also been inspired by tribal elders, mentors, and counselors who believed in me even when I doubted myself. Their encouragement showed me that healing doesn’t just happen individually—it happens collectively, when we lift each other up.” 

Elizabeth is using her training and lived experience to lift others up and to continue learning and serving her tribal community. The apprenticeship program is giving her the knowledge and clinical skills to become a fully credentialed SUDP.  

“Beyond that, I want to continue serving my tribal community, building programs for youth and families, and helping others reconnect to culture as part of recovery. It means everything to me. It’s more than just a job, it’s about giving back to the very people and community that shaped me. Working for my tribe is an honor and a responsibility. It allows me to bring culturally grounded healing, acknowledge our shared history, and help create a healthier future for the next generation. Long-term, I hope to mentor the next generation of counselors from our tribe, so this healing work continues to grow.” 

The SUDP apprenticeship program is a pathway for growth. Elizabeth continues to grow professionally and personally with the support of this program. She encourages others to consider this path too.  

If you have a heart for helping others and you want to make a difference, this program is an incredible opportunity. It won’t always be easy, but it’s worth it. You’ll gain not just skills and education, but also a sense of purpose, connection, and strength. The apprenticeship opens doors—not only to a career, but to personal growth and healing.” 

Peer Support Specialist Apprenticeship: Lanae Seaworth

Peer Support Specialist Apprenticeship: Lanae Seaworth

Our Apprentices say it best!

Lanae’s Success Story

Lanae Seaworth was born and raised in Tacoma, Washington and has found her purpose in giving back to her community and helping others see their potential through peer counseling.

Lanae is a Peer Support Specialist Apprentice at Valeo Vocation, an organization that has participated in the apprenticeship program since 2022. The Peer Support Specialist Apprenticeship includes 29 hours of classroom instruction and 2,000 hours of on-the-job training with support from a mentor. Lanae started the Peer Apprenticeship program in October 2024 and completed her coursework in May 2025. She continues to receive mentorship from Calvin Fahnestock, [insert link to his story] who graduated from the first cohort at Valeo Vocation.  

Lanae began working in the mental health field about eight years ago. While working in this field, she realized she had a desire to better connect with people, especially because she understood so many of their stories. This led her to discover her passion for peer counseling.  

“When I joined Valeo, I began as a Case Manager. At that time, the organization was working to expand its approach by incorporating not only case managers but also peer counselors to better support our participants.” 

A Certified Peer Specialist brings their own model of resilience to benefit patients and enables them to overcome obstacles associated with substance use and other behavioral health disorders. Having personally navigated mental health challenges, addiction, domestic violence, and homelessness, Lanae has now been sober for 13 years and will remain committed to this journey every day. Lanae’s lived experiences fuel her desire to give back to the community and help others see their own potential for growth and healing. 

Her early life was marked by challenges, including a turbulent home environment that led to separated parents. This difficult start pushed her towards unhealthy coping mechanisms, and by the age of 15 she was drinking heavily. By 19, shewas using substances and drifting from place to place. At 22, Lanae met her children’s father, and though they both struggled with addiction, she took her first brief step toward sobriety when she had her first child at 26. However, she relapsed until her second child was born when she was 30.

When her son was just three weeks shy of turning one, he experienced an accidental drug poisoning but survived. That moment served as her wake-up call, leading her to leave behind that past and pursue a new life. She moved to a new city, hoping for a fresh start, but after a car accident due to alcohol use, she found herself facing community service and substance abuse classes. That is when she lost everything and became homeless with two young children, but refused to give up. 

Over the years, Lanae persevered and has dedicated herself to supporting others facing similar struggles. She is now a Peer Counselor with experience as a case manager helping individuals experiencing homelessness. 

“I’ve worked as a case manager for four years—two and a half years at a homeless family shelter, and the last year and a half helping individuals experiencing homelessness overcome barriers to secure full-time employment and long-term stability. Before entering the Peer Apprentice Program, I struggled to connect with participants and understand how to help them overcome the challenges of homelessness. I didn’t yet have the tools to effectively communicate or fully grasp where they were coming from.” 

Lanae has gained important skills through the apprenticeship as well as support from her mentor, organization, and instructors.  

“Now, I’m more empathetic and understanding. I’ve learned how to actively listen and meet participants where they are. I’m able to communicate in a way that makes them feel heard and validated, and I’ve built stronger rapport with them. Trust is built through how I engage with them and how I speak to their needs. My understanding of my surroundings and the people in my life has deepened. It’s easier for me to “read the room”— to observe how people are behaving or feeling. I’ve also become better at interacting with my peers and truly listening to what’s going on.” 

She has now obtained her certification, and this is just the beginning of her journey. 

“I am earning college credits that contribute toward my goal of furthering my education, with the possibility of becoming a Substance Use Disorder Counselor. However, I’m still considering whether that is the path I want to pursue. Earning my Peer Certification has allowed me to shift into a more peer-centered role, meeting clients where they are. This transition has created stronger connections between staff and participants. People feel more comfortable and trusting, knowing that no matter their need, there’s someone who can assist.” 

Through empathy, understanding, and guidance, Lanae strives to help others overcome their personal obstacles and rebuild their lives. 

Peer Support Specialist Apprenticeship: Calvin Fahnestock

Peer Support Specialist Apprenticeship: Calvin Fahnestock

Our Apprentices say it best!

Calvin’s Success Story

Calvin Fahnestock, CJ, graduated from the first Peer Support Specialist Apprenticeship Cohort at Valeo Vocation. Now he is a mentor for the program, has been promoted to Facilities Manager, and is continuing his education.  

Valeo Vocation in Tacoma, Washington, has partnered with us since 2022 on the first Peer Apprenticeship Cohort. They also partner with us for the Substance Use Disorder Professional Apprenticeship. The Peer Support Specialist Apprenticeship program highlights the impact of stories and creating communities of support. 

CJ had been experiencing homelessness for seven years and struggling with drug addiction when he began his own recovery journey. Tacoma Rescue Mission’s search and rescue team made contact with CJ at the end of a trailhead he had been living at for several years. They offered him essentials and shared the New Life Recovery program as a resource. He thought “Anything will help, right? I want to get my life back.” The next day he went to the mission and joined the one-year recovery program.  

After putting in effort to change, he returned to doing electrical work, a job he used to love, but he started feeling stagnant. Looking for more fulfillment, he moved back to Tacoma, his hometown. That is when he found an opportunity to work for Valeo Vocation, a non-profit geared towards ending homelessness and drug addiction through barrier reduction.  

“I chose to pursue a career in behavioral health because I wanted to help others through their journey of recovery. I personally understand what it feels like to not know what resources are available, or to feel fearful about taking that first step into recovery. My goal was to become a bridge for people who needed encouragement and guidance during that critical moment of decision.” 

Shortly after starting his position, he was recommended for the apprenticeship program. The Peer Support Specialist Apprenticeship is an earn-while-you-learn program that consists of coursework with college credits and on-the-job training. CJ was nervous about going through the apprenticeship because it included college coursework.  

“I never graduated high school. I never attended college classes. I got my GED years ago when I was just getting out of prison. I was really nervous going into the apprenticeship. But everybody just came together and was super encouraging, and it made me want to put in the effort to be the best version that I could be. The apprenticeship program, my cohort peers, and my teacher all played a major role in helping me succeed by offering encouragement, accountability, and direction.” 

CJ believes the positive community created through the apprenticeship cohort model made it possible for him to succeed. He values having a growth mindset and says going through the program with others also striving to be their best made the coursework and apprenticeship more meaningful.  

“The apprenticeship gave me both the courage and the tools to advocate for myself, to seek growth, and to aim higher than I ever imagined possible. This program can do the same for anyone willing to step forward. The skills, encouragement, and confidence you gain will not only change your own life but also allow you to impact the lives of others. 

CJ completed the apprenticeship program and became a Certified Peer Counselor in August 2024, but he has continued to strive to learn more and support others. He is pursuing further education in project management and is working as the Facilities Manager at Valeo Vocation. He shares, “What drives me to pursue project management is knowing that I can help people stay in a safe place and help build a positive community.” CJ is also now a mentor to his first mentee, Lanae Seaworth, who is in the fourth Peer Support Specialist cohort. 

When my organization invited me to become a mentor, they supported me every step of the way. That encouragement gave me the confidence to say yes. I really enjoy being a mentor because I’m an uplifter. I am an encourager, and I like guiding people in a positive way. Being a mentor to Lanae has been huge not just for her growth, but mine as well.  

My perspective has broadened—not only do I support people in their recovery, but I also mentor peers as they work toward becoming peer specialists themselves. Today, my role extends beyond helping individuals pursue sobriety; I also help guide others in their professional journeys. This shift has been deeply rewarding.” 

This is just the beginning for CJ as he continues to learn how to be his best self. He has found stability and purpose. He was recently married and received custody of one of his children.  

“I couldn’t be in a better place today. I live in a beautiful home, and I get to go to work and serve people every day. I give a big part of the success that I’m going through right now, to the success I was able to achieve during the apprenticeship.” 

IHAP & NA-C Spotlight: Kidist Tessema

IHAP & NA-C Spotlight: Kidist Tessema

Our Learners say it best!

Kidist’s Success Story

Kidist Tessema, a mother, immigrant, and future nurse has just passed the Nursing Assistant Certification (NAC) Exam after completing the Introduction to Healthcare Employment & Apprenticeship Program (IHAP) course in June and the Nursing Assistant-Certified training program in August.

“I know I want to be a nurse. In this country, they give you really good opportunities. I want to thank everybody in this program. They helped us study, helped with gas cards, and they even helped me with my mortgage. It was fantastic.” 

Kidist, originally from Ethiopia, came to the United States from Italy almost ten years ago. She had previously completed a dental assistant program After coming to the United States, she worked for seven years at an agency serving the autistic community. A few years ago, she studied phlebotomy and knew she wanted to work in a hospital setting, but needed to receive her nursing assistant certification to take the next step in her career 

When she was looking for a CNA program, she learned about the Training Fund’s IHAP course. She delayed signing up to prioritize her family as she was having a baby, but then jumped right into the class in May. 

“I started with IHAP, and they helped me learn to write a resume and how to do a lot of things. They are like family now and everyone tries to help. When I call, they answer. They really are there for us and I want to thank them.” 

Taking the IHAP course and going on to the Nursing Assistant Training program with a newborn and a seven-year-old was incredibly challenging for her. 

“Because I couldn’t work, it was a really hard time. In the middle of class I thought, ‘I have to go back to work. I can’t pay my bills.’ I was stressed. It was very hard for me not going to work. I also had to leave my baby and needed a babysitter. When we started the skills lab, I was going to give up. But Yusuf, our IHAP Navigator, encouraged me and helped me a lot. He told me not to worry and that the program would support me.” 

Financial assistance and a community of support made it possible for Kidist to continue pursuing her goal. She is determined to keep learning and finds purpose in helping people. Kidist also encourages others looking for a good job to think about a career in healthcare. 

“I love this job. I was crying seeing people suffering, but it is very nice to see I can do something to help them and that is my goal, so it makes me very happy. This position is very good for my future. Helping people and just being there for them to do small things makes a difference. I love this job.”  

Kidist completed her clinical training at Swedish Medical Center First Hill Campus. While she was in her training, she demonstrated vigilance, bravery, and care for her patients. She was quick to act when she recognized a woman from a BOLO alert and notified security immediately. Hospital security recognized her courage and commitment to patient safety by presenting her with an award.  

“Thank you, Kidist, for Speaking Up for Safety and protecting our most vulnerable patients!” 

This is just the beginning for Kidist as she continues in her healthcare journey and pursuit of becoming a nurse.  

“You helped me and now I think I can do it and even go on to study more. It might take longer, but I can do it. Thank you!” 

Behavioral Health Technician Apprenticeship: Mohammad Jammeh

Behavioral Health Technician Apprenticeship: Mohammad Jammeh

Pictured: 2025 Behavioral Health Graduate and speaker Mohammed Jammeh (left) shares a moment with Cedric Armstrong, another 2025 Training Fund Graduate.

Mohammad Jammeh 

Unit Secretary/CNA – Gero Psychiatric Unit & LTCC (Long Term Civil Commitment) | UW Medicine

As a Certified Nursing Assistant, I work closely with patients to provide hands-on care and support with their daily living activities. I primarily work in a long-term care unit and geropsychiatric unit, so most of the individuals I care for are either elderly or young adults. Many of our patients live with chronic conditions like dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia, and other neurocognitive disorders. I’ve always been someone who wants to help people, especially those who are vulnerable or struggling. I saw firsthand how much of a difference the nurses and CNAs made—not just physically, but emotionally. They were kind, patient, and made a scary situation feel manageable.

I often felt like I wanted to do more than just provide physical support; I wanted to understand what they were going through mentally and emotionally too. That’s what led me to the Behavioral Health Tech apprenticeship. I saw it as a way to build on my CNA skills and expand into a field where I could support the whole person, not just the body, but the mind as well.

The Behavioral Health Tech (BHT) Apprenticeship matched my learning style by combining hands-on learning with real-world experience. Since I am a CNA, I have patient care experience, but I wanted to learn in a disciplined and supportive method. It aligned perfectly with my career goals and values.

To me, this opportunity meant a chance to grow, learn, and move forward, both personally and professionally. It meant stepping into roles that challenged me, building meaningful connections, and gaining experiences that shaped the kind of nurse I wanted to become.

Behavioral health’s emotional needs were one of my biggest concerns. Supporting people through tough and even horrific situations is hard, especially when you’re learning. The program supported me on this journey with mentorship, supervision, and open communication. The instructor provided a safe space for me to communicate, process, and gain confidence.

My goal is to continue to grow within the health field and eventually become an RN/BSN. I’m passionate about supporting individuals through recovery and mental health challenges, and I want to continue to deepen my knowledge through continued education and experience.

IHAP Spotlight: Daniel Tadesse “Cooking Up Resilience”

IHAP Spotlight: Daniel Tadesse “Cooking Up Resilience”

Daniel Tadesse Self-Portrait 

Daniel Tadesse is passionate about making an impact in healthcare and using his voice to uplift others. He graduated from a pilot Introduction to Healthcare Employment and Apprenticeship Programs (IHAP) course. This training inspired him to share his own journey “Cooking Up Resilience.”

Cooking Up Resilience

By Daniel Tadesse

He was an orphaned immigrant child, conditioned to build his survival around others. First, he learned to navigate the streets, then how to construct a path toward stability — education, career, home. His hands became familiar with the work of creation. Brick by brick, he shaped a future to feel secure. Yet, the structure he built was never truly his — it was designed to serve expectations. Stability alone wasn’t enough. The real test wouldn’t be in constructing success, but in learning to rebuild himself.

Since the age of 18, he built his life in the construction industry, securing a job with the city. But this security slipped away. His employer parted ways with him, jeopardizing not just his career but his entire foundation. His source of income — the very thing keeping his home intact —hangs in the balance. His car is impounded and he feels his foundation breaking.

He faces his deepest fear — losing everything, being an orphan forced back into uncertainty. Survival demands a decision: blame society or start over. Blame is easy. He could let resentment consume him — believing that the system failed him, the world is unfair, and stability was never truly his. He does not want pride to keep him from rebuilding. But starting over? That requires letting go of bitterness, facing himself, and choosing to build again.

His most trusted companion, his dog Abby, teaches him the true meaning of unconditional love, and helps him start to rebuild. Through her, he discovers a word that would change everything: “No.” As he exercises this newfound boundary, the people around him reveal their true selves. It is liberating, but comes at the painful cost of losing those he had kept close. The pain of betrayal gnaws at his heart, but he creates distance to move forward.

He chooses something greater. Not for others or to meet expectations, but rather… love. He walks into a welfare office — a place he never thought he’d be. He applies for food benefits and unemployment, a humbling act that forces him to confront reality. As a child, he survived this way. As a middle-aged man, it carries a different weight. Ego took out his friends. Ego almost takes him out, too.

Searching for direction he steps into the public library. Between the shelves, his eyes land on a flyer pinned to the community board: Healthcare Apprenticeship Program. He almost walks past it. Healthcare? A world so different from construction. But something lingers. It’s not just about finding another job. It’s about finding purpose beyond the structures he built. His hands still know how to create — only now, it won’t be walls and roads. It will be care, healing, and hope.

The choice is clear — fall apart, or rise with intention. Life doesn’t wait. He learns to forgive himself for surviving the only way he knew — by pleasing others. Saying “no” becomes his shield, and setting boundaries, his armor.  He finds an outlet for grief — poetry, a way to release the weight of loss.

Stability requires building a foundation no one can take from him. It starts with small routines. He makes his bed, keeps his space clean, and practices self-care. He realizes faith is tested most when everything feels broken. Loving God or others is easy when life is comfortable. True trust is built in uncertainty. Grace, somehow, keeps his mind intact, giving him the will to keep moving forward.

Rebuilding comes with losses, but his perspective shifts.

          Surrendering the car? Public transportation will carry him forward.

          Food insecurity? He learns to navigate resources like food stamps.

          Losing a career? That doesn’t mean losing the ability to work.

The fight to rebuild is just beginning, but his foundation is made stronger by his core values — faith, will, and the duty to serve. Choosing healthcare feels like the right fit for this new life.

His maintains his routine and plans ahead to remind himself that control begins with how he cares for himself. He guards his peace, mindful of who he allows into his life.  God’s plan is greater than his. Grace carries him through every storm and he lets go of what he cannot control.

He enrolls in a Certified Nursing Assistant program and continues to remind himself:

Growth isn’t a destination; it’s a continuous effort. Some days I stumble, but I keep refining, learning, and pushing forward. Now, I step into the next chapter — not in construction, but in care.  This isn’t just a career shift—it’s a transformation built on choice. The structures that I built before served others.  The foundation I build now allows me to love myself — fully, without apology.

This recipe works for me as I rebuild. For those searching take what helps, leave what doesn’t, and keep cooking up your own resilience.