Clockwise from top left, Becky Gordon, executive director at A Way Out addiction recovery center; CMC human services intern Dave Lehr; CMC human services intern Mary Day; Karlyn Fulmer, A Way Out peer support coordinator and Lehr’s dog Greta gather at offices at A Way Out in Carbondale for a weekly staff meeting to share client successes and discuss concerns for those who might need more support. Photo by Ben Suddendorf
CMC student interns with local nonprofit supporting recovery in Roaring Fork Valley
Human services program connects students with community-based agencies
By Carrie Click, Colorado Mountain College
Colorado is projected to face a shortage of more than 4,400 behavioral health professionals, according to the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration, underscoring the need to educate local professionals who can support individuals and families.
Colorado Mountain College’s Bachelor of Arts in human services is helping address that need by preparing students in the same communities where services are needed.
Internships offered in the Roaring Fork Valley and beyond
In the Roaring Fork Valley, CMC student Dave Lehr is gaining hands-on experience through an internship with A Way Out, a nonprofit that supports individuals in recovery.
“Students learn how to connect with clients, hold boundaries, practice empathy and navigate complex emotions — skills that only develop through direct interaction,” said Becky Gordon, executive director of A Way Out.
Lehr said the experience has expanded his understanding of recovery work.
“Although my focus is in addiction and recovery, A Way Out has shown me that support in the Roaring Fork Valley comes in many forms,” he said. “Housing, employment, mental health services and social connection are all important factors in successful sobriety.”
His supervisor, Kim Reil, said she has seen steady growth.
“Dave is increasingly confident and skillful in his work with people,” Reil said. “He responds with compassion while maintaining boundaries and consistency. When he first started, outreach to clients was a challenge. Now he’s navigating more complex cases with ease.”
Paid internships with regional agencies
CMC’s human services program, launched in 2022, includes paid internships with regional agencies. Students can earn up to six academic credits while gaining real-world experience and may also pursue credentials such as certified addiction technician and certified addiction specialist.
“Interest in human services is strong in our communities,” said Sarah Fedeshen, CMC’s human services internship and instructional coordinator. “Our goal is to support these students and help them transition into meaningful careers, building a local workforce made up of people who already live here and understand the needs of our communities.”
For more information about CMC’s human services bachelor’s degree and internship program, contact Sarah Fedeshen at 970-947-8409.