Maddie Andrews
Maddie is a mental health advocate, MSW student, Qualified Professional, Certified Peer Support Specialist, nonprofit founder and Executive Director of J&E Support Group. As a person in recovery from severe mental illness, Maddie’s journey has taken her from college dropout to a person who has nearly 20 years of experience working in the mental health sector. She brings both professional expertise and lived experience to her work.
At J&E Support Group, Maddie organizes free peer-led support groups, consults with peers and licensed clinicians to strengthen their collaboration, and supports peers through training and development for career success.
Maddie is passionate about bringing people together to reduce stigma and improve mental health awareness. In partnership with Trillium, she designed the first Physical and Behavioral Health Simulation Event, which will be replicated across the state. She also organized Randolph County’s annual Suicide Prevention Summit.
Maddie dedicates her life not only to her own recovery, but to creating healing spaces for others. Through her advocacy, public speaking, peer support work, and leadership, she’s helping reshape how we understand mental health, resilience, and what it means to rebuild a life with purpose.
Maddie will graduate in August 2027 with her Master of Social Work degree from UNC-Chapel Hill. In 2026, she received the National Association of Social Workers NC Kelly Spangler Student Award and was the sole graduate student winner of the UNC-Chapel Hill Robert E. Bryan Public Service Award.
Core Competencies & Expertise
Strategic Leadership: Directing organizational operations and mission-driven initiatives as an Executive Director.
Advocacy & Social Justice: Conceptualizing and executing community advocacy events while serving as a knowledgeable guide on mental health rights and patient protections.
Community Engagement: Building sustainable partnerships and fostering inclusive community environments.
Public Speaking: Delivering motivational and educational presentations on mental health, bringing both lived and professional insight.
Clinical Facilitation: Leading support groups designed to empower individuals with diverse mental health needs.
Maghen Wagner
Maghen is a volunteer Behavioral Health Specalist with J&E. She is a junior at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Maghen is majoring in Social Work with a minor in Human Development and Family Studies. She is working toward a future dedicated to helping others, intending to earn her Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credential and become a Pediatric Therapist to support children and families through compassionate care.
Maghen also serves as a Division I cheerleader for the UNCG Cheer Team, where she demonstrates discipline, teamwork, and leadership both on and off the mat.
Maghen is also serving as Miss Catawba Valley 2026, where she uses her platform Maghen’s Light of Hope, to inspire resilience, raise awareness, and empower others to stand with her in advocating for mental health.
Maghen is honored to serve her region and is committed to making her life goal one of purposeful service, personal growth, and lasting impact.
Cathy
Cathy is a volunteer with J&E Support Group. She graduated with a degree in Human Services. Cathy is dedicated to helping her community. Keep your eyes peeled for her exciting projects, such as a community resource guide.
