Emma Kusters (they/them) is a SHE RECOVERS Together Online Zoom Gathering Host and volunteers their time weekly and has been volunteering in our meetings for just over a year now. They are extremely generous with their time and are quick to pitch in and help the volunteer team if there are any issues with the gathering. Emma’s nominator wanted to highlight how thoughtful they were, especially in their role as a host. And that carries over into the love and support they express in the chat while folks are sharing. It’s no wonder that Emma is currently studying to be a coach with a particular interest in coaching through burnout. We appreciate Emma’s enthusiasm, reliability, and heart-centered approach to serving our community!
They have recently been recognized as a SHE RECOVERS Gem.
SHE RECOVERS Gems are volunteers who have been acknowledged by their peers for their profound and life-altering contributions and service to our community.
We had the honor of interviewing Emma Kusters about their role as a SHE RECOVERS volunteer.
What does being a SHE RECOVERS Foundation volunteer mean to you?
Being a volunteer for the SHE RECOVERS virtual gatherings once a week ups the ante on my recovery. I don’t just show up for myself; I show up for everyone and help make the meeting possible. It’s a chance to support the community that supports me and share my gifts with my community.
What made you want to become a SHE RECOVERS Foundation Volunteer?
I wanted to become a SHE RECOVERS Foundation volunteer to become more deeply involved with this life-changing organization and to give back to the community that has supported me through big challenges and life changes.
What do you do outside of your SRF Volunteer role for work and/or play?
I have two silly dogs, Bruce and Boba, that I love to take on adventures in the woods near my island home. I am working on my first garden, growing vegetables, flowers, and herbs, and getting ready to settle in for cozy crochet season!
What does radical self-care look like for you?
Radical self-care is having the strength to say “NO!” to things that normative culture would try and push me towards. By listening to my body and my intuition instead, my path and purpose are steered by my true nature.
Tell us a little bit about your recovery journey. What are you recovering from? What tools and resources do you weave into your patchwork of recovery?
My recovery journey began in 2020 when I realized that the crippling anxiety I experienced was not normal and not sustainable. I started meditating and learned to connect with and feel my body.
What or who is inspiring you right now?
I’m inspired by my teacher, Martha Beck, and by my fellow students in coach training. They teach me to stay curious and follow my inner compass toward my own north star purpose, as I learn to help others do the same.
What SHE RECOVERS Intention and Guiding Principle resonates with you the most?
We are all recovering from something.
What is your favorite SHE RECOVERS resource?
Our daily virtual gatherings are an indispensable resource. It means so much to be able to depend on that space being available every day, no matter what. I can show up just as I am, and know that I will be loved, accepted, and supported.
What is one piece of advice you would give to another woman/non-binary individual who is seeking a community like SHE RECOVERS?
If you’re seeking a community for your recovery, I encourage you to try out SHE RECOVERS or another organization that speaks to you. Give it a few visits and see how it feels for you, and be gentle with yourself! Listen and be open to learn about yourself through the experience.
Emma! Congratulations on this well deserved recognition!