Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Mercedes Varner

Summerville

Summary

Passionate Peer Recovery Specialist with a proven track record at MUSC, adept in relapse prevention and resource navigation. Skilled in motivational interviewing and fostering supportive environments, empowering clients to achieve personal goals and build resilience through effective communication and problem-solving. Committed to enhancing recovery journeys with empathy and expertise. Continued Training through Birth Matters. To also support expecting and new mothers struggling with substance misuse.

Equipped with complex strong problem-solving abilities, willingness to learn, and excellent communication skills. Poised to contribute to team success and achieve positive results. Ready to tackle new challenges and advance organizational objectives with dedication and enthusiasm.

Overview

4
4
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Peer Recovery Specialist

MUSC
09.2024 - Current
  • Supported clients in navigating social services systems to ensure access to necessary resources for successful recovery.
  • Assisted clients in achieving their personal goals by providing continuous emotional support and resources.
  • Provided crisis intervention services when needed, preventing relapse and promoting continued growth in recovery.
  • Participated in ongoing training opportunities to stay current with industry trends and enhance professional expertise as a Peer Recovery Specialist.
  • Connected clients with community resources and services, fostering a strong support network for sustained recovery.
  • Developed resource materials such as tip sheets, educational handouts, or referral guides to assist clients throughout their journey toward lasting recovery.
  • Assisted clients in identifying personal strengths and challenges, fostering self-awareness and growth towards a healthier lifestyle.
  • Designed safe and supportive environment for clients to discuss issues.
  • Listened to clients' concerns and provided encouragement and support.

Cleaning Crew Member

Carolina Clean Team
08.2023 - 08.2024
  • Maintained cleanliness and organization in assigned areas, ensuring compliance with safety protocols.
  • Operated cleaning equipment efficiently, including vacuums and floor scrubbers.
  • Assisted team members in executing daily cleaning schedules to meet operational standards.
  • Conducted routine inspections to identify maintenance needs and report issues promptly.
  • Collaborated with team to implement effective cleaning procedures and improve overall efficiency.
  • Provided training and support to new crew members on best practices for cleanliness and safety.
  • Adapted quickly to changing priorities while maintaining high levels of productivity during peak times.
  • Handled equipment, chemicals, and materials properly and with caution.
  • Cleaned and organized restrooms by restocking dispensers, sanitizing fixtures and spot cleaning partition walls and doors.
  • Used time management and efficient cleaning methods to meet deadlines.

Volunteer Alumni

Any Length
08.2022 - 08.2023
  • Provided empathetic support to individuals navigating mental health challenges.
  • Facilitated peer-led support groups, fostering community and shared experiences.
  • Assisted clients in developing coping strategies and life skills.
  • Educated clients on available resources and services within the community.
  • Supported crisis intervention efforts by maintaining calm and providing guidance.
  • Served as a role model for clients, sharing personal experiences of recovery and resilience.
  • Built relationships with others based upon trust and honesty by using active listening and dynamic communication skills.
  • Developed trusting relationships with clients by maintaining confidentiality, respect, and non-judgmental attitudes.

Fruit Expert/Assistant Manager

Eddible Arrangemets
05.2021 - 08.2022
  • Curated diverse fruit selections to create visually appealing arrangements.
  • Educated customers on seasonal fruits and optimal preparation techniques.
  • Managed inventory levels to ensure freshness and minimize waste.
  • Collaborated with team members to enhance presentation and product quality.
  • Conducted quality checks on incoming fruit shipments for optimal freshness.
  • Developed and implemented new arrangement designs based on customer feedback.
  • Trained new staff on fruit handling, preparation, and arrangement techniques.
  • Educated customers on proper storage techniques for various fruits, extending product shelf life and reducing food waste at home.
  • Reduced shrinkage rates by identifying damaged or expired products quickly, allowing for timely removal from shelves.
  • Collaborated with team members to optimize fruit displays for visual appeal and easy access.
  • Provided personalized recommendations based on customer needs, fostering trust and building long-term relationships.
  • Increased store efficiency by maintaining a clean, organized, and well-stocked fruit department.
  • Trained new employees on store policies, procedures, and fruit handling best practices to ensure consistent team performance.
  • Ensured freshness of produce by regularly inspecting and rotating stock, resulting in reduced waste and improved sales.
  • Contributed to increased sales by sharing expert knowledge on the benefits of different fruits for specific dietary needs or preferences with customers.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing knowledgeable and friendly assistance in fruit selection.
  • Achieved a consistent high level of customer satisfaction by addressing questions, concerns, and special requests with professionalism and care.
  • Streamlined ordering processes with suppliers to secure fresh deliveries consistently while minimizing excess stock expenses.
  • Improved workplace safety standards by adhering to guidelines for proper lifting techniques during restocking activities.
  • Demonstrated adaptability during peak periods by adjusting priorities accordingly in order to maintain high levels of service quality under pressure.
  • Completed on-the-job training to learn correct methods for identifying defects.
  • Complied with company policies and OSHA regulations to maintain safe working conditions.
  • Opened sealed containers and checked for spoilage due to improper handling and transportation.

Education

GED -

SC Works
Charleston, SC

Skills

  • Self-care techniques
  • Relapse prevention
  • Motivational interviewing
  • Resource navigation
  • Recovery planning
  • Boundary setting
  • Documentation
  • Trauma-informed care
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Epic Documentation
  • RedCap Documentation
  • Active listening
  • Emotional support
  • Patient advocacy
  • Client needs assessment
  • Peer support
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Multitasking
  • Reliability
  • Excellent communication

Certification

  • Peer Recovery Doula Training - 3 months
  • Certified Peer Support Specialist - 1 year



Timeline

Peer Recovery Specialist

MUSC
09.2024 - Current

Cleaning Crew Member

Carolina Clean Team
08.2023 - 08.2024

Volunteer Alumni

Any Length
08.2022 - 08.2023

Fruit Expert/Assistant Manager

Eddible Arrangemets
05.2021 - 08.2022

GED -

SC Works

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Mercedes Varner