I don't see how this can be helpful for filling the peer recovery specialist need (PRS) and there is a need. I habve 3 OUI's it is coming up on almost 10 years since I have had the charge. I have remained in good standing with the law. Through the years I had some clean time on and off. I can proudly say I have 5 years 7 months free from alcohol. I am a very driven an hard worker. I like to help others, I would love to be a PRS! The fact that I was in active addiction at one point in my life an that I have a criminal background does not mean I am not capable of a job. It does not mean I am a going to put someones life in jeoporady, or that I will commit another crime. In fact I feel it makes me a better candidate to relate to the clients I would be watching over and guiding to better themselves. Between seeing my transformation and MANY others in recovery I believe we have only come out the other side of addiction as even better people. Some of us were raised well, with good morals, values, ethics and what not. We just got lost in life. When we found our way though we got our original self back, plus a deeper look in to how we could keep bettering ourself and those around us. 

We simply want the chance to not let our past to keep defining who we are. The past is a part of us, it is not us though. Ease up on barrier crimes please. We have and do recover!