What is Peer Support

Peer Support is a system of giving and receiving support, information, and guidance founded on the key principles of respect, shared responsibility, and mutual agreement. It is where colleagues, members of self-help organizations, and others meet, in person or online, as equals to give each other connection and support on a reciprocal basis

…At GSIL we believe that helping others is not just something we do, but something we live by.

Meet our Mentors

Alan Roy

Peer Mentor Coordinator Alan Roy joined the GSIL team in 2025. In 2006, Alan began having trouble with his arms and walking. After several spinal surgeries, most of his spinal function returned, albeit with some pain and difficulty using his legs.

In 2010, he had a spinal cord stimulator implanted to help manage his pain and give me stimulation over the paralysis. Alan currently gets around with the use of a wheelchair and forearm crutches. He is able to live independently and has maintained his ability to drive with the use of hand controls.

For years before his injury, Alan was a fitness enthusiast: a cyclist and frequent weightlifter. In an effort to find his way back to his love of fitness, he became a hand-cyclist and later purchased a racing wheelchair.

Keeping fit still plays a big role in Alan’s life. He is determined to help others reap the physical and mental rewards of fitness, including the social interactions and feeling of accomplishment that accompany physical fitness.

Jennifer Crowell

Jennifer Crowell is GSIL’s Peer Mentor Coordinator and a member of the United Spinal New Hampshire Chapter.  

Jennifer sustained a Spinal Cord Injury in 2008 by diving into shallow water, resulting in quadriplegia.  With the help of family, friends and the supports offered at GSIL she lives independently in her own home, with her service dog Journey.  

“I have learned a lot throughout these years and only wish to share my experiences with others to help support their best quality of life.”

Jenny’s life is full – she works part time as a Peer Support Coordinator for GSIL, participates in adaptive sports and recreation, is a voice for advocacy, volunteers in the community, an active fundraiser for GSIL, drives her own accessible vehicle, and is a proud auntie of a niece and two nephews.