Social Model Recovery Systems (SMRS) held a deeply impactful All-Agency Meeting on May 6 at Almansor Court.
Chief Executive Officer Bruce Boardman kicked off the event with welcoming remarks that emphasized unity and shared purpose. He was followed by Chief Financial Officer Tim Stevens, who introduced Michelle Silva to present important updates on SMRS’ new medical coverage
This year’s meeting placed a special emphasis on Women’s Wellness and Mental Health Awareness, featuring powerful insights and heartfelt stories from panelists who courageously shared their personal journeys.
Highlighting Women’s Wellness and Mental Health
Justina Catania, RN, BSN, MAT Expansion Coordinator, opened the discussion with a resonant quote from Maya Angelou, reminding everyone how much it matters to make others feel seen and valued. She spoke not only about women’s wellness but also emphasized the importance of mental health for everyone, highlighting how mental well-being is essential across all genders, especially in the demanding work we do each day. Justina pointed out how societal expectations can overwhelm women with the pressures of caregiving, career demands, and personal wellness, underscoring the need for mindful interactions and trust-building in our work with vulnerable communities.
The panel featured personal narratives that captured the audience’s hearts:
- Denise Hernandez Felice, MSW, ACSW #119021, CATC IV, Senior Director, Treatment Services, shared a heartfelt reflection on the internal struggle she faced balancing motherhood and a growing career. Despite fears and self-doubt, she found strength in SMRS’ supportive environment, which allowed her to show up fully as a mother and a leader. Her story was a reminder of how much it matters to have a workplace that truly sees and supports you.
- Madonna LeCaine, Primary Aide, Omni Center, spoke openly about the stigma women often face when seeking treatment, challenging the common misconceptions surrounding addiction. She shared personal experiences that illustrated how societal judgment can make recovery even more difficult, and emphasized the need for understanding, support, and education to truly help women heal.
- Somer Harrison-Mierau, PT, Medication Management Coordinator, opened up about her personal recovery journey, reflecting on the moments of vulnerability and the emotional growth that shaped her path. She spoke candidly about the importance of honesty, self-worth, and learning to set healthy boundaries; tools that not only supported her own healing but now help guide her work supporting others on their recovery journeys.
- Desiree Beltran, CATC II #2215878, Director of the CARE Center, shared a deeply moving account of her early experiences as a teenage mother navigating addiction without support. Through heartbreak, persistence, and a strong drive to break generational cycles, she transformed her life and the lives of her nine children. Today, she is one of the respected leaders at SMRS. Her story highlighted how access to resources, community support, and personal resolve can lead to lasting recovery and meaningful leadership.)
- Lynetta Hale, MA, LMFT #154477, LPT #29946, Senior Director of Clinical Services, spoke with conviction about the layered impact of trauma and the persistent stigma surrounding mental health. Drawing from both professional expertise and personal experience, she emphasized the need to meet people where they are and called for a trauma-informed approach that recognizes the deep, often unseen wounds many carry into treatment.
- Chris Abernathy, Chief Operating Officer, shared his experiences growing up with a resilient single mother, reflecting on the challenges they faced and the strength it took to build a stable family foundation. His story offered a meaningful look at perseverance, gratitude, and the quiet strength behind the scenes.
Denise opened up about her maternal mental health challenges, describing the quiet struggles that often go unseen after having twins. She spoke honestly about how hard it can be to ask for help, and how the right support isn’t always there when it’s needed most. Her story started an important conversation in the room about what new mothers go through, and how we can all do better to show up with understanding, not judgment.
The conversation touched on the real-life challenges people face when dealing with both mental health and substance use, making it clear that treatment can’t be one-size-fits-all. The panel emphasized how crucial it is to offer care that’s connected, compassionate, and includes access to medication and ongoing staff training to truly support those we serve.
When the topic turned to self-care, it struck a chord. This wasn’t just about wellness tips, it was a heartfelt reminder that taking care of yourself is essential. Whether it’s pausing to breathe, setting boundaries, or leaning on your support system, the message was simple and powerful: you matter too. And when you’re cared for, you’re better able to care for others, with presence, with purpose, and with love.
This was followed by the presentation of the Top Three nominees for the 2025 Inspiration of Uncompromising Service Award, introduced by Mike Schaub, Senior Director of Community Relations. Out of 31 impressive submissions, the following individuals were recognized for their outstanding commitment and impact:
- Cecile Rodriguez – Finance Department
Cecile, who began her career at SMRS in the marketing and outreach department, now serves as a vital figure within HR and payroll. She manages the immense responsibility of ensuring timely pay for 290 staff members, navigating the life challenges of employees with grace, and consistently offering support, even during the most personal and emotional circumstances. Cecile is admired for her humor, empathy, and professionalism. - Aliza Rivera – Royal Palms
Aliza’s leadership is described as steady, compassionate, and deeply inspiring. Her presence brings structure, mentorship, and calm, especially during crises. Her ability to lead by example, connect with residents as whole individuals, and empower both staff and residents alike has created lasting change in her program. She leads with both heart and purpose. - Steven Rucker – Stepping Stones
Known for his warm demeanor and exceptional ability to build rapport, Steven has a natural way of helping residents feel at ease from the moment they arrive, often becoming the first trusted face they encounter in treatment. His consistent presence and care have made a meaningful difference in both resident retention and the overall experience at the program.
Congratulations to Steven Rucker, who was named the 2025 recipient of the Inspiration of Uncompromising Service Award! This act of generosity beautifully reflected the SMRS community’s commitment to mental health advocacy and support.
A fun 50/50 opportunity drawing hosted by the Royal Palms team, led by Ray Amaya, added energy to the day and helped raise funds for NAMIWalks Greater Los Angeles, showing SMRS’ continued support for mental health awareness.
To close the day, CEO Bruce Boardman returned to the stage for heartfelt closing remarks, followed by a Q&A session where attendees had the chance to engage directly with him and the leadership team.
