Our Team
James Bollinger
Leonard "Lenny" Burnett
Leonard "Lenny" Burnett
James is a compassionate recovery professional with extensive experience in peer support, training facilitation, and community outreach. As co-founder of Empowering Freedom, he develops and leads innovative training programs that foster recovery, resilience, and personal growth. James is a Certified Peer Specialist and Advanced WRAP Facil
James is a compassionate recovery professional with extensive experience in peer support, training facilitation, and community outreach. As co-founder of Empowering Freedom, he develops and leads innovative training programs that foster recovery, resilience, and personal growth. James is a Certified Peer Specialist and Advanced WRAP Facilitator, committed to empowering individuals through recovery education and solution-based support. His work includes facilitating peer-led sessions, mentoring individuals in behavioral health recovery, and promoting recovery-informed practices in workplaces across the region.
Leonard "Lenny" Burnett
Leonard "Lenny" Burnett
Leonard "Lenny" Burnett
Lenny is a dedicated recovery leader, peer support advocate, and co-founder of Empowering Freedom, a peer-led initiative focused on recovery, reentry, and personal transformation. With extensive experience in program development, training facilitation, and community-based support, Lenny specializes in creating safe, therapeutic environmen
Lenny is a dedicated recovery leader, peer support advocate, and co-founder of Empowering Freedom, a peer-led initiative focused on recovery, reentry, and personal transformation. With extensive experience in program development, training facilitation, and community-based support, Lenny specializes in creating safe, therapeutic environments that empower individuals to reclaim their lives. He is a Certified Peer Specialist, Advanced WRAP Facilitator, and Forensic Peer Support Trainer, committed to promoting resilience and reducing stigma. A recipient of the NAMI Glenn Koons Recovery Award, Lenny leads with compassion, experience, and a deep commitment to helping others thrive beyond adversity.
Upcoming Trainings
Empowerment, Support, and Skills: Transformative Trainings for Mental Health and Peer Support
Designed for individuals and professionals passionate about mental wellness and peer support, our expert-led courses equip you with practical tools, real-world insights, and the confidence to make a meaningful impact in your community. Whether you're an individual looking to grow or an organization aiming to support your team, our expert-led courses provide practical tools and real-world insights. Trainings can be tailored to meet the unique needs of your organization, ensuring maximum impact and relevance.
Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) Seminar I
WRAP Seminar I: Building Your Wellness Toolbox
This foundational workshop introduces participants to the Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP), a peer-developed evidence-based system for managing wellness and recovery. Through interactive sessions, you'll learn how to create your own WRAP, explore key recovery concepts, and develop personalized strategies for staying well. Ideal for individuals seeking greater self-awareness, resilience, and empowerment in their mental health journey. description.
Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) Seminar II - Facilitator Training
WRAP Seminar II: Become a Certified WRAP Facilitator
WRAP Seminar II is an intensive, interactive training designed for individuals who have completed WRAP Seminar I and are ready to take the next step as WRAP group facilitators. Participants deepen their understanding of WRAP values and facilitation skills, learning how to create a safe, supportive environment that empowers others in their wellness journeys. Successful completion leads to certification as a WRAP Facilitator, opening the door to leading groups and trainings in your community or organization..
Peer Support Within the Criminal Justice System: Forensic Peer Support
WRAP Seminar II: Become a Certified WRAP Facilitator
Forensic Peer Support: Lived Experience Meets the Justice System
This training is designed for individuals with lived experience of mental health and/or substance use challenges who also have experience with the criminal justice system. It explores the unique role of forensic peer support in jails, prisons, courts, and reentry programs. Participants will gain tools to support others involved in the justice system, understand key legal and ethical considerations, and build skills to foster hope, connection, and recovery in challenging environments.
Adult Mental Health First Aid
Adult Mental Health First Aid: Be the Help Until Help Arrives
This evidence-based training teaches participants how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges in adults. Through interactive instruction and real-life scenarios, you'll learn how to approach someone in crisis, offer initial support, and connect them with appropriate resources. Ideal for workplaces, community members, and anyone looking to build confidence in supporting mental well-being.