The Compeer program works to match compassionate, open-minded volunteers, ages eighteen and over, with men and women who have severe and persistent mental illnesses. Volunteers coordinate social activities – visiting a local park, eating out, bowling, taking in a movie, etc. - with their compeer friend in an effort to help alleviate loneliness and isolation through the power of friendship.

Become a friend to someone with mental illness and you will help them (and yourself) in many ways. Persons matched with a compeer often experience fewer hospitalizations and increased self-esteem, and they are more likely to adhere to their medication and treatment programs.

The Compeer model is recognized as a best practice for recovery by the American Psychological Association. The MHA’s Compeer program is one of 80 such affiliates worldwide.
Compeer encourages one-to-one volunteers, but provides the following volunteer opportunities:

One-to-One
Compeer friends meet face-to-face with their matches at least twice a month. Many matches go to a movie, have lunch, play sports, or enjoy other social activities. Costs are shared between the volunteer and the friend. Volunteers are involved in the matching process so that they may choose a friend who is compatible by age, interests, and geographical location. Volunteers must complete an application and screening process prior to placement, and will receive an orientation, on-going training as well as support from the MHA.

Callers
Compeer Callers make a weekly call to an individual waiting to be matched One-to-One.

Groups
Group Volunteers are civic, church, sorority/fraternity, or other groups who provide an activity or party for persons living in a group home setting. Both one-time and ongoing group volunteers are welcomed.

For One-to-One and Callers:

	Call 704.365.4380, or complete and submit the on-line application
	Meet with the Compeer Program Director for an interview
	Pass a criminal background and reference check
	Complete a 2 hour orientation/training session
	Assist the Compeer Program Director with selecting your match
	Meet and/or call your new friend and begin having fun while making a difference in your community

For Groups:

	Call 704.365.4380 or email scaraco@mhacentralcarolinas.org to notify the Compeer Program Director of your group’s interest in volunteering
	Complete an hour of orientation/training/planning
	Conduct your activity and enjoy helping others

	Compeer Volunteer Application compeerVolunteerApplication.pdf
	Scott and Matt's Story Matt and Scott's Story.pdf
	When Opportunity Knocks - Volunteer! Volunteer Spotlight1.pdf
	Compeer International http://www.compeer.org/