The Lake County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services Board has announced the appointment of Jonathan Clemente as the operations manager of BRIDGES Mental Health Consumer Empowerment.
The Painesville-based organization is peer-led and focuses on supporting individuals living with mental health conditions.
Clemente brings more than eight years of experience in peer support and behavioral health services and holds multiple credentials, including certified peer recovery supporter and certified personal medicine coach.
Before joining BRIDGES, Clemente served as a peer support specialist at Catholic Charities, where he worked directly with individuals in treatment, led support groups and collaborated with clinical teams to improve outcomes.
He also worked as a consultant with Northeast Ohio Medical University, developing training materials and providing guidance to behavioral health providers across the state.
Clemente expressed that he was drawn to BRIDGES because of the significance of community.
“Having a place where individuals can connect and feel supported is critical, especially for those navigating mental health challenges,” he said.
In his new role, Clemente will focus on learning daily operations, strengthening the organizational culture and enhancing services that support recovery and empowerment.
He emphasized the importance of reducing stigma and fostering understanding as key goals moving forward.
“The message I want to share is simple: do not be afraid of individuals living with mental illness,” Clemente said. “I have met incredible people in this field — individuals with strength, talent and character.
“When we support one another, our entire community becomes stronger.”
ADAMHS Board Executive Director Kim Fraser added that BRIDGES plays a critical role in Lake County’s behavioral health continuum, promoting connection and hope.
“And leadership with lived experience is vital to building an effective behavioral health system,” she said. “Jonathan’s background and passion for peer support will help strengthen services for individuals and families across Lake County.”