From Credible Messengers to Weaving Wellness: A Program Rooted in Relationship and Renewal
In the summer of 2024, the Dispute Resolution Center launched a powerful new mentorship initiative: Credible Messengers. Designed to support participants in the Quinault Wellness Court, the program was created to serve youth and families navigating complex challenges including behavioral health needs, systemic involvement, and intergenerational trauma.
Developed in collaboration with the University of Washington and based on the Family Integrated Transitions (FIT) model, Weaving Wellness is a relationship-centered, trauma-informed mentoring program. It equips mentors to work across family, community, and care systems, helping participants navigate their journeys with resilience and hope.
Following months of training and preparation, the first referrals were welcomed in October 2024. Since then, the Weaving Wellness team has offered regular face-to-face coaching, hands-on resource navigation, and consistent emotional support. These relationships are not transactional; they are transformational. Mentors serve not only as guides, but as mirrors and anchors, helping youth tap into their inner strength, redefine success, and reconnect with their potential.
As the program grows, so does its impact. What started as a pilot is becoming a pillar. As reflected by the team, these connections have already helped participants tap into their inner strength, transform setbacks into success, and emerge as sources of strength for others.
Meet the Weaving Wellness Team
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Asia Sanchez (she/her)
Program Manager
Languages spoken: English & Thai/LaotianAsia joined the DRC in September 2024, drawn by her deep desire to give back and support community transformation. As Program Manager for Weaving Wellness, she oversees all aspects of the program, from scheduling and reporting to implementing trauma-informed methods and leading the mentor team.
With a background in trauma-based therapy and youth support, Asia has played an essential role in shaping the program’s success. Her leadership is rooted in empathy, accountability, and a belief in the healing power of connection.
Outside of work, Asia enjoys hiking, meditating, and offering sound therapy to others. To her, the DRC is more than a workplace. It’s a home for shared respect and collective healing.
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Samantha Smith-Kramer (she/her)
Mentor
Languages spoken: English
Certified Peer Counselor, Recovery CoachSam began her journey with the DRC in September 2024 after connecting with the team through a Harborside Chats event. With previous experience as a Peer Support Specialist for the Quinault Tribal Court, she brings lived experience and a deep understanding of what healing truly requires.
In her role as a mentor, Sam offers direct emotional and practical support to youth and their families. Her personal story fuels her mission: to show others that change is possible and that every person deserves to be seen, heard, and supported.
Sam is also a proud mother and community member who loves spending time with her children, playing league softball and volleyball, and finding joy in everyday life. Her presence brings strength, relatability, and unwavering care to the youth she mentors.
