In a world where connection can be one of the most impactful aspects on a healing journey, Greater Mental Health of New York is making friendship a cornerstone of mental health recovery. A chapter of Compeer International, our program pairs compassionate volunteers with adults navigating sustained recovery, offering not just companionship but sincere connection. Whether it’s sharing a walk in the park, enjoying a meal, watching a movie, attending an art exhibit, visiting the library, or watching a sporting event together, these moments foster meaningful relationships that uplift both the Compeer friends and the volunteers themselves. It’s more than just spending time—it’s about building lives enriched by empathy, laughter, and genuine human connection.
To highlight the power of connection in mental health recovery, we interviewed Compeer participants and volunteers Cindy, Dawn, and Rozz. Over 20 years, they have developed genuine friendships that have brought so much to their lives.
Can you each share a little about what brought you to the Compeer program initially?
Cindy:
I came to the Compeer program because I was feeling really alone and did not have any friends in my life. I wanted someone I could talk to and connect with. After some time in the program, I was introduced to Rozz, and we have now been friends for nineteen years. She has been a constant in my life through my ups and downs. I feel so lucky to have Rozz in my life—she is a true friend. I do not know what I would do without her.
Dawn:
About fourteen years ago, I met with a Compeer Coordinator who asked if I was interested in having a Compeer friend. She thought Rozz and I would be a good match, so she gave me Rozz’s phone number. Rozz and I spoke on the phone, then we met in person, and now we have been friends for fourteen years.
Rozz:
Twenty years ago, I was referred to the Compeer Program by the Rockland Independent Living Center—now called Bridges. At the time, I was struggling with depression and anxiety after a painful breakup that left me feeling isolated. When I met with the Compeer Coordinator, I thought I was there to be matched with someone who would support me. Instead, she said, “You’re going to be a volunteer.” That moment changed everything. I was no longer seen only through my struggles—I was seen as someone who could offer hope. I began volunteering in 2005, and that experience opened the door for me to join Greater Mental Health of New York as an employee. Nearly two decades later, I’m still part of the same mission—both as staff and as a volunteer—giving back through the very program that helped me find purpose.
How has your personal journey evolved since joining the program?
Cindy:
I have learned that I am not the only person with problems, and that has helped me feel less alone. I also started getting along with people better and feeling more confident talking to my doctors. I have found a real friend in Rozz, and having her in my life has made such a difference.
Dawn:
Over the years, I’ve learned to open up more and be myself. Through my friendship with Rozz, I’ve grown emotionally and feel more confident sharing my thoughts and feelings.
Rozz:
My journey has evolved in such a meaningful way because of the two amazing women I’ve been matched with as a Compeer volunteer. Even though I was originally there to support them, they’ve become a constant source of strength and friendship for me as well. I thought I would be the one offering hope, but instead, I gained two lifelong friends who remind me that support can flow both ways.
What are some of your favorite memories together over the past 20 years?
Dawn:
Our long and in-depth conversations over the phone. Our trips to the Dollar Store and to Dunkin’ Donuts for coffee. Getting together with Cindy, and all three of us going out.
Cindy:
What means the most is that Rozz does not try to control me or tell me what to do. She lets me make my own decisions, and I really appreciate that. I like my independence, and Rozz respects that. Always remember that there are people who want to help, and you can find a friend just like I found Rozz.
Rozz:
One of my favorite memories is making strawberry pancakes with Cindy in my first apartment—she helped me set up and celebrate my new home. I also treasure the simple, everyday moments: deep talks, laughter, and knowing she’s always there. Dawn gives me calm, thoughtful advice and helps me slow down and see things clearly. With both Cindy and Dawn, I’ve found something rare—friendship that’s deep, lasting, and truly supportive.
How has your friendship helped you through difficult times?
Cindy:
Whenever I have needed Rozz, she’s always been there for me, no questions asked. Especially when it comes to my basic needs, she has helped me out without hesitation. She stood by me through so many of my problems. I have always loved Rozz for that.
Dawn:
Our telephone conversations when we talk about what we did recently, our feelings, and our problems. Spending time together, sharing our thoughts, enjoying each other’s company, and supporting one another. Rozz has also helped me with setting up my doctor’s appointments and taking me to the doctor. She also visited me in the hospital after I had my surgeries.
Rozz:
My friendships with Cindy and Dawn have helped me through some of the hardest times in my life. Just knowing I had someone to talk to, lean on, cry with, or simply call made all the difference. What means the most is that they’re there with no expectations or judgment—just true, loyal friendship. They are my “true blue” friends, and I cherish that with all my heart.
In what ways has your friendship changed or shaped who you are today?
Cindy:
Thanks to my Compeer friend, Rozz, I am more outgoing, I can communicate my needs better, and I feel less depressed. I honestly do not know what I would do without her; she is the best.
Dawn:
Just having someone to talk to on the phone means so much to me. I have someone to reach out to when I need support, and she always calls me back. I am better able to communicate with my cousins, and I have developed closer relationships with them. Rozz has helped me overcome my shyness by telling me to take things in stride and that everything works out okay. I feel more grounded with myself thanks to Rozz, and she helps me stay centered when I am depressed.
Rozz:
My friendship with Cindy and Dawn has shown me that it’s truly possible to have long-lasting, loyal friendships that stand the test of time. They remind me that I’m not alone and that real, lasting friendship—the kind you can actually touch—is not only possible but life-changing.
What lessons have you learned from each other over the years?
Cindy:
Over the years, being with my Compeer friend, Rozz, has taught me a lot, especially about loyalty. She has supported me through tough times and even helped me quit smoking. I have also learned how to speak up for myself more and advocate for what I need.
Dawn:
Loyalty, caring, gentleness, and just being a friend—all things I have learned from my friendship with Rozz.
Rozz:
Over the years, I have learned what it truly means to have a real friend. Dawn and Cindy taught me the value of honesty, hope, and being there for someone with no conditions attached. I’ve learned that real friendship exists—the kind where someone genuinely cares about you, worries about your well-being, and wants to see you okay.
What advice would you give to others just starting out in the Compeer program?
Cindy:
Be patient, and give some time to get to know one another. Building a connection doesn’t happen overnight. Also, remember everyone has their own struggles, and you are not alone.
Dawn:
Take it step by step. Be honest, be loyal, and be yourself.
Rozz:
Give it time. Not every match will click right away, and that’s okay. Spend a few weeks getting to know each other—sometimes it takes time, and sometimes it’s just not the right fit. But when it works, it’s life-changing. A true friend is someone you can talk to, laugh with, and be yourself around. If you have even one friend like that, you’re lucky. I have two, and I never take that for granted.
How do you plan to continue supporting each other in the years to come?
Cindy:
Rozz is the best friend I’ve ever had. I love her sense of humor, and one of my favorite quotes is “A friend in need is a friend indeed.” I admire Rozz, and by being friends with her, I have picked up some of her good habits, like quitting smoking.
Dawn:
We will continue to support each other by being friends and listening to each other carefully and just trying to be there for each other, because that’s the most important thing.
Rozz:
Through every high and low, we’ve stood by one another. I plan to keep showing up, listening, and encouraging my friends the way they’ve always done for me. Our friendship has lasted twenty years because it’s built on care, trust, and loyalty—and I know it will continue that way for many years to come.
Learn more about Greater Mental Health’s Compeer Program.
