Peer Helping

BENEFITS OF PEER HELPING

Peer Helper programs provide students with opportunities for learning, guidance, emotional support, and growth, which translates to reduced drug and alcohol involvement, reduced cases of sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies, reduced conflict, higher academic skills, increased understanding of differences, and increased service to others.

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By helping others in programs that are peer-led and peer-run, they increase their own self-esteem and leadership skills. 
 
Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation's Role

Over the past 14 years, the Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation has developed and implemented Peer Helper Programs in 44 schools in Baldwin County Alabama.  Not only have the programs been successul, the program have exceeded their expectations.  In March, 2011, Dr. Alan Lee, Superintendent of the Baldwin County Board of Education stated, "I'm convinced that the Peer Helper Program is the most valuable thing that schools have."

Building on the success of the programs in Baldwin County, the Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation is now poised to assist other  communities wishing to implement "lifeline" programs for their youth.  The Foundation can help provide learning resources, guidance, and training for schools interested in implementing their own program similar to the Baldwin County, Alabama model.

To learn more about Peer Helper Programs and how the Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation may help, click here!

WHAT IS PEER HELPING? 

Peer Helping is a variety of supportive services initiated by peers of elementary, middle and high school students in diverse settings.  Peer Helpers are young people who are trained and supervised by professionals who adhere to the ethics and standards endorsed by the National Association of Peer Program Professionals. For High School Students, the Peer Helper program involves an accredited 17 week course in which life lessons are taught.  A simular model can be adapted for middle school children based on the principals or mediation.  
                   
                   

The program covers issues that affect the youth of today (i.e. parental divorce, weight issues, family sickness, death of a fellow student, depression, etc.) and Peer Helpers are trained how to listen, observe and help fellow students who may be struggling with problems. 

Peer Helpers often become preventative agents who identify problems and encourage others to seek the necessary help from appropriate professionals. 

"I'm convinced that the Peer Helper Program is the most valuable thing that our schools have."
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Dr. Alan Lee, Superintendent - Baldwin County Public Schools - March, 2011