Peer Programs Day-Press Release

National Association of Peer Programs Designates Wednesday of Red Ribbon Week as National Peer Programs Day.

Showcasing the millions of young people who actively participate in peer programs, the National Association of Peer Programs designated Wednesday of Red Ribbon Week (falling on October 25, 2006) to be National Peer Programs Day. This day will recognize the peer helpers and their advisors in their critical role in creating positive and caring schools and communities. The National Association of Peer Programs asks peer helpers and their advisors to wear a blue ribbon on this day to highlight their work.

Annually, millions of young people and adults celebrate a healthy, drug-free life by wearing or displaying a Red Ribbon during the Red Ribbon Week. Since 1988, National Family Partnership has provided national leadership for this exciting event. This nationwide celebration has become a major force for raising public awareness and mobilizing communities to combat alcohol and drug use among youth. The National Association of Peer Programs chose to utilize this high profile and positive event to highlight the efforts of peer programs. This will allow schools to celebrate in an effective and efficient manner.

The National Associations of Peer Programs supports programs with various names such as peer helping, counseling, peer ministry, leadership, health education, conflict mediation, service learning, tutoring, mentoring and other names. Peers do not replace licensed or certified professionals or practitioners, but often serve as an extension of the services these professionals provide. Through much research and evaluation, peer programs have been found to be one of the most proven and effective prevention strategies.

The National Association of Peer Programs celebrated its 19th Annual Conference in June and serves as the preeminent international organization-promoting peer programs. Founded in 1984, the National Association of Peer Programs, formerly the National Peer Helpers Association, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation whose mission is equip individuals to help others by promoting standards of excellence in Peer Programs. It offers an annual conference, training opportunities, professional development, a newsletter, a peer helping listserv and peer reviewed journal. For more information, see the website: www.peerprograms.org.