In late 2019 I asked a supervisor about the Peer Community in Massachusetts outside the agency we worked at. I knew about the RLCs (Recovery Learning Communities), but I was hoping there was a broader network that included Peer Specialists working at traditional mental health agencies, Peer-led legislative advocacy, and the RLCs, and...really anybody who wanted to pitch in or share resources across the commonwealth. She gave me Howard's email address, and that's how I heard about the iSPARC advisory boards, ODA (Opening Doors for the Arts), MUCH (Massachusetts United for Connection and Healing), monthly virtual open mic nights through Boston-DBSA, just so many opportunities to connect. My supervisor had told me Howard has a few separate mailing lists - like ODA, which has its own listserv because it has access to art and community events; but I don't remember which other specific lists he has, because I asked to be added to all of them. I wanted to get everything and make my own choices once I got a sense of what's out there. A few times I've even sent something to Howard to share to the listserv, like information about a temporary program or a job posting from a peer who was having trouble finding a Personal Care Assistant. 

Just email him at howarddtrachtman@gmail.com and ask about his mailing lists. There's no "red tape" or referral process, but if you want to share how you heard about him and his mailing list, he does appreciate knowing how that information reaches people so he can make the most of it.