About Us
I have lived most of my life in Winona. I went to the
parochial schools and the College of St. Teresa in
Winona. My five children all graduated from
Winona schools. I have 17 grandchildren most of
whom live in southeast MN or west central WI. I am
married and we reside in Dodge, WI for the past
three years. When I retired from a 30-year career
with the City of Winona I never dreamt THIS would
be my “last phase” to life. Josh told me two weeks
before he died, “Momma, people are dying of
fentanyl and no one is talking about it”. I didn’t
know what he meant, but I found out and now I will
NOT stop talking about illicit drugs in an attempt to
save another mother from this pain. I speak for Josh.
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I wasn’t born in Winona, but have lived here for most of my life. As a young mother, I was extremely grateful for Winona's ECFE program, and have always wanted to give back to the community. It feels like my time has come. I have experienced mental health and substance use issues from every angle possible, and have found that since losing my firstborn son to fentanyl poisoning what helps me most is to feel like I’m helping to provide solutions to this major epidemic. Educating people about the dangers of illicit drugs is one of the ways I feel I can make a difference and hopefully prevent more mothers from living through this horrible pain I have experienced. I wish to help make Winona, and the world, a place where people feel safe to express their needs and concerns without being met with prejudice and stigmas, and to learn new coping skills other than using substances. I am certified as a Peer Recovery Specialist in the state of MN.
Diana Benson
I have lived in Winona since 2014. I am married and
I have 2 sons. I am dedicated to making a difference
in my community by working for a non-profit that
focuses on raising awareness about the dangers of
fentanyl. My role involves educating the public
about the severe risks associated with this potent
opioid, aiming to prevent poisonings and save lives.
This mission is deeply personal to me, as the tragic
death of my son, Connor due to fentanyl poisoning
has profoundly affected me. Through programs and
informational campaigns, I strive to provide crucial
knowledge and support to individuals and families.
My commitment to this cause is driven by a deep
sense of responsibility and compassion. I am
passionate about contributing to a safer and
healthier community, hoping to spare others of the
pain I have had to endure. I know Connor is
watching me and is proud of me.