National Council for Mental Wellbeing Honors Kohl at NatCon25
The National Council for Mental Wellbeing is honoring Anthony Kohl, Senior Peer Coordinator at VIP Community Services, with its prestigious Peer Specialist of the Year Award during NatCon25, the premier national conference on mental health and substance use treatment, currently taking place in Philadelphia.
The Peer Specialist of the Year Award recognizes individuals with lived experience who serve as a vital support system for others navigating mental health and substance use challenges. Recipients demonstrate exceptional commitment, compassion, and impact in the field of recovery.
Kohl, a New York State Certified Peer, has drawn on his personal experience to guide and support individuals on their recovery journeys. Based in the Bronx, NY, he has dedicated over a decade to peer work and holds certifications as a Recovery Coach, Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA), and OMH Certified Peer Specialist. Notably, he was the first individual in New York State to serve as a Veterans Supported Recovery (VSR) Peer.
Chuck Ingoglia, President and CEO of the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, is presenting the award during this week’s conference, which runs from May 5–7 and welcomes more than 6,000 behavioral health professionals from across the country.
“Anthony Kohl represents the core of peer support—compassion, resilience, acceptance, and empowerment,” said Debbian Fletcher-Blake, President & CEO of VIP Community Services. “His unwavering dedication and powerful use of lived experience to connect with others, exemplify the heart of our mission. We are immensely proud of Anthony and thrilled to see him recognized nationally for the profound impact he makes every day.”
“It is an honor to be recognized by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing,” said Anthony Kohl, Senior Peer Coordinator at VIP Community Services. “This award is a reflection of the power of peer support and the importance of lived experience in the recovery process. I am proud to contribute to the work we do at VIP Community Services and grateful for the opportunity to support individuals on their journey toward healing and stability.”
“Anthony’s ability to use his lived experience with compassion and empathy has had a profound impact on the community we serve,” said Alison Maling, AVP and Senior Director of CCBHC at VIP Community Services. “He creates space for growth, learning, and healing, not only for patients and veterans but also for his colleagues. It has been an honor to witness his journey and the way his presence inspires change in others; this national recognition is both well-earned and deeply deserved.”
Kohl is one of four individuals being recognized with the National Council’s Awards of Excellence. Two recipients are being honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award, while two—including Kohl—are receiving the Peer Specialist of the Year Award.
About VIP Community Services
Founded in 1974, VIP Community Services provides comprehensive, integrated medical, behavioral health, housing, and supportive services that promote the well-being of individuals, families, and communities across the Bronx.
Born from a grassroots movement led by Father Robert Banome and residents in East Tremont/Crotona, VIP continues to address systemic issues such as poverty, substance use, unemployment, and housing insecurity with a commitment to dignity, recovery, and empowerment.
