This handbook describes the merits of peer counseling within a drug education and prevention program, especially its effectiveness as compared to traditional approaches to drug abuse prevention. The means and methods to developing, organizing and implementing a peer counselor program are described in detail. Implementation is presented on a day by…

The evolution of a peer counseling project at a school for the deaf in Canada is described. Reasons for establishing the program, key elements (engendering support, student selection, training workshops, school involvement, supervision, and evaluation), the role of facilitators, and training demands are discussed (Author/DB)

Describes Youth-Reaching-Youth (YRY) Project, peer substance abuse prevention program of National Network of Runaway and Youth Services. Defines YRY goal as preventing and reducing substance abuse among runaway, homeless, and other youth in high-risk situations. Describes need for program, training curriculum, and evaluation. (NB)

Describes pilot program, undertaken with staff from eight bars in Ontario, Canada, that uses a peer learning model to teach problem-solving skills regarding prevention and management of aggressive behaviors in bars. Participants showed significant positive changes in knowledge and attitudes regarding effective approaches. Program illustrated the…

A demonstration project using a volunteer peer advisory approach to consumer education for the elderly was developed which indicates the possibility of using a peer advisory system for employing lifetime consumer experiences of the elderly and of providing avenues for continued societal involvement. (Author)

This article explores two methods of peer counseling used in high schools. The open model of counseling, or students trained to help other students, is described. (Author/DF)

This manual is intended to help professionals and non-professionals develop a peer support system involving older persons in the provision of comprehensive mental health services. The materials focus on: (1) program concept and objectives; (2) links between physical and mental health in the elderly; (3) recruitment and training of peer counselors;…

Describes a nutrition education program for the elderly in which 22 older adults were recruited and trained as peer educators to create interest in nutrition and serve as liaisons between peers and sound sources of nutrition information. Participants (N=933) reported that sessions were interesting and provided useful information. (Author/JAC)

Baltimore's Job Squad is a placement alternative that motivates the handicapped person to improve independent job-seeking skills through the teamwork of counselors, peers, and community resources. Job Squad's background, support system, organization, positive results, and future implications as a valuable placement technique are discussed. (Author)

This booklet is intended to help parents and teacher activists think critically about the problem of violence in their schools and about how to respond. The booklet offers a framework for analyzing violence prevention programs that may already be in place in the schools, and it provides ideas for improving programs or starting new ones. The…

The role of advisors at Washington West Resource Center (Vermont) is described in this report as providing professional and personal support to teachers. Advisors and teachers in this program work together on such topics as curriculum development and implementation, classroom organization, specific skills development, materials and acquisitions,…

Offers practical suggestions for the design and implementation of peer counseling programs for older adults. General suggestions include trainee selection, setting goals, and providing followup. Also presents specific recommendations on group size, format, leadership qualities, and conducting training. (Author/JAC)

The use of a peer counselor in a staff support position in the student financial aid office at Wesleyan University is discussed. An academic credit course taught by the Director of Financial Aid was organized. Peer counselors must be selected, trained, and given responsibilities normally assigned to professionals. (MLW)

This paper describes the development of one high school peer counseling program created in response to a number of adolescent suicides and attempted suicides. The formation and activities of the interdisciplinary team (school social worker, school psychologist, school guidance counselor, health education teacher, and students) to develop and…

Describes a three-year project (1985-88) which established a training center for peer counseling that serves three school districts. An evaluation of the citywide project is reported, and the limitations of centralized training are discussed, along with speculations about expanding services and populations. (TE)