“ASK ME ABOUT COMPEER!” That’s what my button says. I officially started my full-time job on June 16, 2008, so it may be a little early to ask me. But, I’ll try to give you an answer.
What is Compeer?COMPEER is a program of Mental Health America of Licking County. COMPEER serves people who are recovering from mental illness and was developed in Rochester, New York in 1973.
"It's as simple as being a friend."
We all know what it is like to need a friend. Spending time with positive loving people you care about can ease stress, help your mood and improve the way you feel overall. Friends give us the support we need for good mental health.
Individuals experiencing mental illness may also experience loneliness, isolation and low self-esteem.
The COMPEER program serves people who are recovering from a mental illness. Compeer recruits, screens, trains and matches volunteers in one-to-one friendship relationships with adults receiving mental illness treatment. Compeer volunteers become positive role models and mentors. They help raise self-esteem, increase social and communication skills and encourage independence of their compeer friend, aiding them in their recovery.
The rewards are many when you volunteer for COMPEER. There are opportunities for personal growth and satisfaction through helping others. You will also combat the stigma associated with mental illness. Being a COMPEER volunteer is fun and fits into your current lifestyle.
We’re off to a great start with our second half of the year. Compeer members will “take me out to the ball game” on June 29th to see the Licking County Settlers triumph in a double-header. Then, by popular demand, we’re off for an evening of bowling, as a group, on July 7th.
Upcoming events include popular movie nights, a Tiki party, and a Compeer Awards Night Dinner. Fall promises Halloween and Thanksgiving Parties, as well as some other surprises!
Don’t get the wrong impression! Compeer is about more than parties. The majority of our time is simply spending time with a friend. COMPEER staff supports volunteers with free training and on-going professional guidance to facilitate the development of productive friendships. Volunteers are asked to make a commitment of at least one hour per week. Some of our friendships have lasted for years.
Unfortunately, there is a list of COMPEER members waiting for a friend. If you are a compassionate person with room in your life for a new friend, consider volunteering with COMPEER. For more information, please contact Kristen Frame, COMPEER Coordinator at (740) 345-5658.
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