Live & Learn has collected biannual data from Peer Respites across the United States starting in 2014 using the Peer Respite Essential features (PREF) Survey to explore the peer respite model. This nationwide, longitudinal data describes trends in organization development and program policy which allows communities, states, and programs to learn from each other and ultimately help support these programs. While we work to finish our 2020 PREF Reports, we wanted to share a recent publication Characteristics of Peer Respites in the US in the Psychiatric Rehabilitation Journal. This publication adds to the limited existing research on peer respites and discusses important next steps exploring the effectiveness of these programs compared to other crisis diversion services. 

• Used the P.A.S.S. program, or other work incentives programs, to help get the business started
• Have experience managing time and tasks for business operations
• Can offer tips and tricks for time and task management skills 
• Can offer advice on what questions people starting a business should ask 
• Have created a business plan 
• Run a “maker” business that produces products for sale 
• Run a service business, such as a barbershop, accounting service, or some service in the building trades

In this interview, Kim Cordingly of the Job Accommodation Network’s (JAN)  discusses self-employment for people with psychiatric disabilities with Live & Learn, Inc. founder Laysha Ostrow. Laysha  describes the research on self-employment for people with psychiatric disabilities and why there is a need for more research in this area. As the article mentions, a better understanding of lived experiences can contribute to the development of "more effective approaches and programs to support these entrepreneurial efforts."

The U.S. Department of Labor contracts with JAN to offer free guidance on disability employment issues for employers, employees, and other organizations.

Live & Learn, Inc. will be presenting at the National Association of Peer Supporters (N.A.P.S.) 2021 Annual Conference: Uniting the Peer Workforce. This two-day virtual event will be taking place in October on Thursday the 21st and Friday the 22nd and will feature networking opportunities, breakout sessions, and the N.A.P.S. annual meeting. We will be presenting the first year findings from our Certified Peer Specialist Career Outcomes Study and discussing how this research will inform the peer specialist certification process and improve employment and career opportunities for peers.