The Expectations:
If you're going to be a Peer Educator, you must be at least 14 years old during the program year. You must be in grades 9-12 during the program year, and agree to a minimum one-year commitment. You must be able to attend Peer Educator trainings, weekly meetings, presentations, outreach opportunities, and special events. You must demonstrate healthy decision-making skills and behaviors while serving as a positive role model for your peers. You must be able to respect value systems different from your own. As a Peer Educator, you must be comfortable meeting new people and working with other students from surrounding schools. You must be willing to provide accurate, non-judgemental, and confidential information and referrals at all times. You must be able to support Planned Parenthood's mission.
Time management is very important. As a Peer Educator, you're expected to make your program participant tasks and duties a priority. You must come with an open mind and eagerness to learn about healthy sexual decision-making. As a Peer Educator, you'll be responsible for communicating with your coordinator about reliable transportation to and from training, weekly meetings, events, workshops, and presentations. You must be comfortable being approached by other members of the community once you are known as a Planned Parenthood Peer Educator. The expectation is that, as a Peer Educator, you'll be an advocate for healthy sexuality within your community.
You will need a parent or guardian's permission to participate in the Peer Educator Program unless you are over the age of 18.
The Benefits:
Planned Parenthood Peer Educators gain public speaking, empathy, and listening skills. If selected as a Peer Educator, you'll meet like-minded young people who are also interested in social change. You’ll provide support to your peers and community. You’ll encounter potential opportunities to travel for national and statewide events. You’ll gain development and skills in the following areas: leadership, public speaking, time management, life skills, active listening, and supportive communication. You’ll receive thorough training in topics related to human sexuality and teen health. You’ll experience providing youth-friendly peer support and health education, and receive opportunities to network with city, county, state, and national organizations and potential future employers.
You will also receive compensation for your time through participation-based stipends throughout the program year.