Team Members

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Janice V. Johnson is the Founder, Executive Director and Lead Facilitator of Programs for Mothers Against Drugs, Inc., bringing over 20 years of experience in supporting families affected by substance use disorder and homicide. With 22 years of personal recovery and lived experience, Janice is passionate about guiding families through the complexities of grief and trauma, particularly those who have lost loved ones to a substance use related cause, homicide or community violence. Tragically, Janice has also lost a child due to substance use disorder in 2023 deepening her resolve to help others facing similar struggles. Having a certificate and years of experience in holistic healing, Janice incorporates various healing modalities to foster resilience and empowerment in families navigating recovery. With more than 40 years as an early childhood educator, she combines her vast experience in education and holistic approaches to create nurturing environments that inspire hope and facilitate healing for families in need.

Maudrie Depradine is our Peer Support Advocate. She is a dedicated mother who has tragically lost a child to fentanyl poisoning. Fueled by her personal experience, she is committed to providing compassionate support and advocacy for families facing the devastating impact of substance use and grief. 

Her mission is to empower families to navigate their healing journeys while advocating for systemic change, ensuring that no other family has to endure the same heartbreak. Through her work, she aims to create a community of support, understanding, and hope for those affected by substance use disorders.

Mary is a dedicated group participant who volunteers her time as a Support Group Facilitator. She tragically loss her son to gun violence and  has living experience with family substance use disorder.

Kevin is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health and Counseling at William James College in Newton, MA. With a strong commitment to supporting others, he works as our Mental Health Consultant, providing valuable insights and guidance to those in need. Additionally, Kevin contributes his skills as a member of the Marketing Support Team, working to promote mental health awareness and resources within the community. His passion for mental health and dedication to helping others make him a valuable asset in both his academic and volunteer pursuits.

Wayne Sylvester Daley serves as our consultant and community outreach volunteer. With years of experience with The Boston School Police Unit (Operation Homefront), The Transit Police (Operation Stopwatch), The Boston Fire Department, Project Right, Inc. (Mike & Al’s Basketbal League, Haley House (Teep Program & LiFT Program), Massachusetts Black Alcoholism & Addiction Council, Access To Recovery Coach (ATR), and Neighborhood Community Walk Trainer (where he trained churches how to connect with their community).

Jay’Lana is a dedicated student at the Massachusetts College of Art, where she is pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts and Photography. With a passion for visual storytelling, she combines her creative talents with her academic pursuits. In addition to her studies, Jay’Lana serves as an Administrative Support staff for our virtual support groups and an intern in photography  gaining valuable hands-on experience in the art and photography fields.