"Inspiring Change and Advocacy Through Personal Stories"
Laurel Lemke's journey into public speaking began in an eighth grade English course in Shorewood, Wisconsin. She discovered her passion for public speaking during Forensic speaking competitions in high school. In 1983, Laurel joined her first Toastmasters Club in Auburn, WA, and remained an active member for 20 years. During her time with Toastmasters, she served in various club officer positions, mentored new clubs, and won numerous trophies in speech competitions. Laurel's public speaking expanded to sharing her mental health recovery story at her Toastmasters club and district conferences. A mentor from Toastmasters guided her to the National Speakers Association, leading her to speak at the Washington Institute at Western State Hospital.
Laurel's professional journey brought her to Washington State, where she served as a campus lay minister and worked in psychiatric group homes before starting her career at Western State Hospital. Initially a recreation leader, she was soon leading patient meetings due to her effective communication skills.
Laurel supporting Grave Concerns with her apron at a local event
After nearly five years as a Vocational Rehabilitation counselor, she returned to Western State Hospital as the first Ombudsman. Her career continued with roles at Aging and Disabilities Services and the Forensics Unit. Laurel's last five years in state service were as the Director of Consumer Affairs and Volunteer Services, during which she played a key role in implementing the hospital's peer bridger program.
Since her retirement in June 2018, Laurel has continued to impact the mental health field. She provides continuing education as an Advanced Level WRAP facilitator, Mental Health First Aid Instructor, and CPC trainer. She recently completed The Power of Peer Support in Crisis Services training and has already begun teaching the course.
Laurel with Peer Washington CEO & President Josh Wallace
During the COVID pandemic, she served as an operator for Washington Listens and received the 2020 Cindy Willey Award for her dedication to peer support. Laurel co-hosted "55 Plus," an online informational show and support group, for over two years and led the Older Adult CPS curriculum stakeholder team for its upcoming manual revision.
Laurel has a rich history of public speaking on mental health topics. She was the first self-identified "consumer" to present on stigma at the Washington Behavioral Conference, also presenting at national NAMI and Manic Depressive Association conferences. She has spoken at numerous conferences and offered In Our Own Voice presentations for NAMI Pierce.
Additionally, Laurel trained in Stand Up for Mental Health over ten years ago, mentored the second Washington State class, and performed in various locations, including a benefit show for Grave Concerns.
Laurel is the founder of the Grave Concerns Association, an all-volunteer effort to restore dignity to the historic Western State Hospital cemetery in Fort Steilacoom Park. The organization has placed 2,000 markers since 2004, recently securing a Capital Funds Grant to complete the project.
Laurel tabling for Grave Concerns at a local event
She has spoken to numerous civic organizations to raise awareness and interest in the program, leading to her involvement with the Pierce County Heritage League and the Historic Fort Steilacoom board.
Laurel developed kidney disease from long-term lithium use and is currently undergoing dialysis while hoping for a kidney donation and transplant. She has successfully advocated for changes in her insurance policy and continues to advocate for kidney care. Laurel has shared her kidney journey at church and for the Renal Support Network. She re-joined Toastmasters as a member of Kidney Stories, an online group, and will be presenting on traveling while on dialysis at an upcoming webinar in August.
Laurel discovered Washington Speaks at a Peer Pathways conference and sought advanced speaking opportunities. She participates in online speaking practice groups and is working with coach Paul Currington to create a TED-style talk for Peer Pathways in August, focusing on pivotal peer support experiences. Laurel has also presented online with Abbey Wellmeyer and welcomes more opportunities to share her insights statewide.
Laurel Lemke is an experienced and passionate speaker whose journey through mental health recovery, professional achievements, and personal advocacy continues to inspire and educate audiences. For event bookings, please contact WA SPEAKS.
Upcoming Webinar:
Hear Laurel Lemke speak on August 3 from 10 AM to 3 PM EST as she shares her experiences of traveling while on dialysis, offering insights into resilience and adaptation. Don't miss this inspiring session! Register here to secure your spot!
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