AFSCME Staff · Wednesday, August 28, 2024
Amy Simpson is a mental health professional in Oregon who struggles to connect with her clients while relying on her own experiences.
“I help bridge the gap between addiction services and domestic violence services. I'm an art therapist and a drug and alcohol counselor,” the Oregon AFSCME member said in a video shown at the 46th AFSCME International Convention. “I present them with mediums and options to explore and express, and I create an atmosphere of safety and trust where they feel comfortable starting to talk.”
In recognition of her contributions to the community, Simpson was awarded AFSCME's Never Quit Service Award, which recognizes public servants who go above and beyond the call of duty to better their communities.
AFSCME President Lee Sanders presented Simpson with the surprise award Wednesday, the third day of the convention.
One of her clients, Chelsea Darnell, saw her child taken away by Child Protective Services before seeking help for substance abuse. With Simpson's help, she was able to get her child back.
“I don't think I would be in the position I am in today without Amy's help,” Darnell said on stage at the convention Wednesday. “It takes a lot of willpower to overcome addiction and get into recovery, and it takes even more willpower to see others through that process.”
Simpson himself has suffered from substance use disorder and has built a career using his experience to help people overcome addiction.
Upon receiving the Never Quit Award, Simpson said, “I am so grateful to AFSCME for this award. All of the years I've worked in recovery, I've done so out of a passion for healing. I've been fortunate to receive help from so many people in the community service community, and I've been inspired by their dedication and passion for healing.”
She praised AFSCME for providing the support she needed.
“I am incredibly honored to be a member of AFSCME and to work with a union that supports my work and helps my fellow AFSCME employees earn the respect and rights they deserve,” Simpson said through tears.
