Scott DesJardins

Scott’s journey is one that defies convention, marked by a relentless pursuit of purpose and the innate drive to turn adversity into opportunity. His path has been shaped by moments that challenged his resolve, yet each step forward was fueled by an unyielding belief in the power of hope. These qualities are the cornerstone of Scott's approach to leadership and advocacy, forming the foundation of his efforts to create meaningful change in systems and communities alike.
With over 12 years of transformative recovery from chronic homelessness, addiction, mental health challenges, and involvement with the justice system, Scott has emerged as a passionate and effective advocate for systemic change. 
Scott’s exceptional ability to identify, evaluate, integrate, and critique ideas, data, systems, and processes has played a pivotal role in planning meaningful reform. His dedication to systemic improvement consistently results in innovative solutions for addressing complex challenges. With a strong educational background and a knowledge-driven mindset, Scott pairs his solid skill set with a proactive problem-solving approach, generating impactful outcomes in both professional and personal spheres.
Known for his unconventional thinking, Scott thrives in fostering collaborations that might seem improbable but yield mutually beneficial results. His creative and strategic mindset equips him to navigate multifaceted issues. His wide-ranging talents and diverse life experiences uniquely position him as a resourceful and perceptive leader, particularly in advocacy and reform initiatives.
Scott’s lived experiences, including the challenges he faced before, during, and after homelessness, have deeply shaped his compassionate and empathetic nature. These experiences align seamlessly with his higher calling and genuine desire to uplift others.
Scott’s journey is a powerful testament to resilience and the enduring power of hope. By sharing his story, he not only sheds light on systemic challenges but also empowers others to find their voice and advocate for change. His ability to connect with individuals from all walks of life has established him as a sought-after speaker, mentor, and ally in the pursuit of equity and justice. Through his unwavering commitment to uplifting those around him, Scott transforms personal adversity into a source of inspiration, proving that even in the face of great hardship, extraordinary growth and impact are achievable.

With over eight years of professional experience in Homeless Services, combined with decades of invaluable lived experience, I bring a unique perspective and dedication to mental health care. My passion and expertise have also extended to roles as an Intensive Case Management Specialist, Certified Peer Specialist and Street Outreach Specialist.
My personal journey deeply informs my professional approach. I am in long-term recovery from major depression, PTSD, ADHD (as a child) and substance use, with over 12 years of sobriety. I have been securely housed for 11 years after experiencing chronic homelessness for 15 years. These experiences have shaped my ability to connect authentically with those I serve, providing a foundation of empathy, respect, and insight into the challenges they face. I leverage these experiences to build meaningful, validating relationships with participants while maintaining professional boundaries and ethics.
A key component of my work is the Wellness Recovery Action Plan (W.R.A.P.), a tool that has proven transformative in my own recovery. By role-modeling its effective use and meeting the people where they are at, I empower peers to create individualized recovery plans while advocating for self-efficacy, consumer rights, and the dismantling of racism and stigma. My real-world approach is rooted in the recovery model that prioritizes acceptance, choice, empowerment, and community.
In practice, I employ housing first, harm-reduction, and trauma informed care best practices to mini-mize barriers and provide immediate, actionable support for securing and maintaining stable housing. Through my personal and professional expertise, I guide participants through the Coordinated Entry System and Permanent Supportive Housing processes. I recognize the power of equipping individuals with critical knowledge and support to restore hope and transform their lives.
Additionally, I rely on evidence-based methodologies like motivational interviewing to inspire growth, reflecting their thoughts back to them and using their ambivalence to foster change. This, coupled with my lived expertise, allows me to assess participants’ needs effectively and connect them with the appropriate resources and services. I also assist with transportation and accompaniment to help get participants to their health care appointments and give further assistance with food, clothing and hygiene as needed. I ensure warm handoffs to Mental Health Care, Medical Healthcare and other agencies for seamless transitions and lasting collaborations. Lastly, I regularly confer with my supervisor and team members to ensure that all options are considered and to eliminate mistakes.
I believe my commitment to the principles of recovery and my capacity to bridge lived and professional expertise make me a strong candidate for this position. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute to your agency's mission of combating mental health and providing life-changing support.
Warm regards,
Scott DesJardins

My most relavent education has to be my Lived Experience. Through exstensive training on many important topics I have honed my skill sets to meet real world engagements. I am certified as a Peer Support Specialist, Intensive Case Manager Specialist, Street Outreach Specialist, WRAP facilitator, Community Health Worker with an emphisis on Mental Heath First Aid and Trauma Informed Care. So, all this combined, transforms my Lived Experience into Lived Expertise.