Founders: The Chaplain & The Veteran

Sharon Schlerf (Newcomb)

President/Chaplain

sharon.schlerf.newcomb@bi-vph.org

Sharon has embarked on her journey to 'semi-retire in 2025' but purpose and mission continue, with the help of DoD SkillBridge Partners. Service Members who have been transitioning either retiring or ending their enlistment terms are joining us as 120 to 180 Days Interns and upon completion opportunities to become Independent Contractors. New collaborations are amplifying her efforts as she actively recruits talented eager to become leaders in the evolving field of behavioral health care administration, training, and. Join her in shaping the future of this vital sector!

Michael 'Mike' Newcomb

US Army Veteran, Veteran-Certified Support Specialist (V-CSS)

Michael ‘Mike’comb, a dedicated US Army Veteran, has been a trailblazer in advocating for recognition of peer-to-peer mental health support in Virginia since 2006. a Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) and Peer, he identified the pressing need for holistic health services for military personnel. In June 2013, Mike became the first Peer Specialist the Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center, where he implemented the US DHHS SAMHSA Action Planning for Prevention & Recovery (updated Courage to Change (Whole Health Management) program until 2018. Additionally, he served as a Master Trainer and co-creator for US DHHS SAMHSA Peer Workforce Curriculums, shaping the future of peer recovery specialist training until January 1.

Sharon's Service Dog

Compass

Compass was initially bred and trained by US Army Veterans for Military K-9 & Law Enforcement duties. When Sharon's beloved service-dog, golden retriever 'Thor' died, she was asked to visit them. The eight-week-old German Shepherd climbed into Sharon's lap, enlisted herself, and trained for service-dog duties and faithful friend. She is 10 years old now, and 'retired'.

Photo: 'Parade Rest'

Michael's Comfort Cat

Magnet

Magnet aka Maggie is a Scottish Fold breed kitten 2020 only a few months old and is now four years old. Adopted to be his 'emotional support' cat', guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

Photo: 'Sentinel Watch'

Our Team Includes Mary Ann Littell, Recruiter & Community Business Collaborations Barbara Stahl, Peer Workforce Administrative Assistant Nick Antis, US Coast Guard SkillBridge Intern, Trainer Brennen Johncock, US Air Force SkillBridge Intern, Curriculum and Data Management