Anita Jenison – Staff Spotlight

Anita Jenison, Counselor Associate at Cazenovia Manor, is motivated by the little things. She loves to see residents reach important goals in sobriety, but she stresses that even the smallest goals matter. “I like to see not just the one year or the one month milestones, but even one day is a big accomplishment” Anita said.

She has a bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Buffalo State and she is a Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor Trainee (CASAC-T). She has extensive experience in the substance use field as she has worked with both kids and adults in recovery. Anita originally became involved in this field because she knows people who were affected by addiction. “I’ve seen the struggles they’ve been through and I want to help people,” she remarked.

Our agency hired Anita to help with the Unity House transition last summer. She started her work with us at Visions Place and New Beginnings, two programs we closed last summer. She worked at Unity House for a short time after it opened before transitioning to Cazenovia Manor in South Buffalo. She couldn’t be happier there. “I like the people I work with,” she said. “We all get along and work well together.” Our agency prides itself on being supportive and empowering and Cazenovia Manor is no different. “You can go to anyone for help.”

Even though many of our residents have been through some very difficult circumstances, they often express gratitude. This never ceases to surprise Anita. “They turn themselves around and show appreciation,” she said. Gratitude and appreciation are essential to recovery, and Anita knows this. She also strives to let our residents know that she is there to support them in their journey. “I hope to give them the tools to maintain sobriety,” Anita said. “It’s the best thing I can do for them.”