When the Village Shrinks: The Life-Changing Power of Peer Support

In this episode of How I Ally, host Lucinda Koza sits down with Beth Giannobile, a peer support specialist with Mom2Mom, a New Jersey-based helpline for caregivers of individuals with disabilities. Beth shares her powerful journey from caller to counselor and explains how peer support can break the cycle of isolation so many parents feel after a diagnosis.

 

Together, they explore the emotional toll of caregiving, the unique magic of connecting with someone who’s “been there,” and the importance of centering caregiver wellness. With insights from Rutgers Behavioral Health’s Matthew Buragina, this conversation shines a light on a model of care that’s quietly transforming lives.

 

If you’ve ever felt unseen, unheard, or alone in your parenting journey—this episode is for you.

 

In This Episode:

• How Mom2Mom matches callers with peers who truly understand

• What happens when the village shrinks—and how to rebuild it

• The power of lived experience in support services

• Why self-care is more than solo grocery runs

• The ripple effect of a single phone call

 

Resources Mentioned:

• Learn more: www.mom2mom.us.com

• Call the helpline: 1-877-914-MOM2 (6662)

• Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care: https://ubhc.rutgers.edu

 

Funded by:

New Jersey Department of Children and Families

Division of Developmental Disabilities