Jong Her
Provider
Service Array: Paraprofessional, Individual Skill Development and Enhancement (ISDE), Recovery Coach, and Youth Mentor
I was born in a refugee camp in Thailand, where I spent the first two years with my family, waiting for a sponsor to bring us to America. Fortunately, my family was sponsored by a family in the Chippewa Valley area, where I reside today. Our sponsor has been essential in the opportunities that we have had since arriving in the United States.
Although opportunities were more plentiful in the United States, I faced numerous obstacles and challenges. I found myself in a strange country with a culture unlike my own. It was challenging for me to find ways to integrate the Hmong culture with the culture of Western Wisconsin. This disconnection with the region and the community, in combination with my traumatic childhood experiences, led me down a dangerous path in my youth, resulting in multiple stays at the juvenile detention center and addiction, all of which would begin to affect my mental health
negatively.
Mental health is just important as physical health. It is also one of the most challenging issues that anyone could face. While it’s still something I find myself dealing with at times, I have found that the best way to combat it is to utilize structured routines and mindfulness to sever the ties related to the destructive patterns of a darkened mental state.
Mentorship has played a considerable role in my journey to healing and strengthening my life. I attribute much of my continuous success to those who have supported me. Now, I am striving to mentor and help others identify their skills for success, even when the stakes are high, and it
feels like they are running out of viable options.
I refer to physical fitness training, outdoor activities, and sports to attain wellness and groundedness. One of my favorite things is to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature- feel the wind, and breathe the fresh air. This brings calmness to my well-being. It is one of the most powerful tools anyone can use on themselves.
By simply taking a moment to breathe in the fresh air, you can find a restorative sense of balance, be in the present, and appreciate your life. These activities have helped me establish self-confidence and a higher sense of self, both of which have been crucial in helping me to overcome adversity and problems in my life.
I am honored to offer assistance and authenticity to those seeking a method to liberate themselves from negative patterns and life cycles. I am incredibly grateful for those who have helped me uncover the best version of myself and become the man I am today. And it is a privilege to now have the opportunity to do the same for others and pay it forward.