• Meech Papaioannou

    PRESIDENT

    Any/All Pronouns

    Meech serves as the President and Co-Founder of Queer Headed. Actively engaged in the LGBTQIA+ and sober communities in Atlantic County, Meech navigates the unique intersection of being queer and sober, presenting both challenges and opportunities. With a commitment to sobriety exceeding four years, Meech aspires to share their wealth of experience, strength, and hope with individuals grappling with substance-related challenges. The mission of Queer Headed is rooted in Meech’s passion to support those facing similar struggles. Currently, Meech holds the role of Peer Recovery Specialist at Atlanticare, aiding community members combating substance use disorder. Pursuing a license in Social Work (LSW), Meech is dedicated to expanding their expertise and impact in the field.

  • Mark Heffernan

    VICE PRESIDENT

    He/They

    Mark, the Vice President and Co-Founder of Queer Headed, has achieved seven years of continuous sobriety, is a CADC in New Jersey, and is currently furthering his education as an MSW student. They helped establish Queer Headed as to offer a safe and creative space for queer individuals in Atlantic County, a void he personally experienced in his own recovery. Mark’s mission is guided by the belief that inclusion and shared experiences are vital for wellness, especially in the LGBTQIA+ community. His own recovery was significantly boosted by the support of his queer friend group, an experience he wishes to extend to others. Looking ahead, Mark aims to open a private practice focused on pyschotherapy for LGBTQIA+ clients, demonstrating his dedication to specialized, inclusive care.

  • Claire Brower

    BOARD SECRETARY

    Any/All Pronouns

    Claire is the Board Secretary of Queer Headed. A proud member of the queer community, they initially got involved with the organization after attending Queer Headed events and seeing the deep need for queer and sober programming in South Jersey. Claire comes to Queer Headed with experience working in nonprofit administration as well as in office, business, and data management. He currently works at a nonprofit in Atlantic City that addresses food insecurity in the area. Claire is a Master Naturalist and in xer spare time enjoys writing poetry, doing amateur bookbinding, playing music, and running volunteer trail maintenance events.