|
Compeer of Johnson County Making Friends. Changing Lives. |
|
Home Related Links:
![]()
|
Compeer's Mission Statement: The mission of the Compeer Program of Johnson County is to reduce the loneliness and isolation of adults receiving mental health treatment by developing structured friendships with community volunteers. Compeer of Johnson County is part of the only non-profit international network of affiliates which matches community volunteers in supportive one-to-one friendship relationships with people receiving mental health treatment. The Johnson County Compeer program was established in 2002 and has served over 70 individuals since then. We are always looking for compassionate caring adult volunteers who want to make a positive difference in another person's life.
Making Friends~Changing Lives!
You will meet with your friend on a regular basis at mutually convenient times to share activities you both enjoy, such as movies, sports, going for walks in good weather, shopping or coffee and a chat or many of the free activities available in the Iowa City/Johnson County area. Through the gift of your friendship, you will gain a sense of satisfaction and personal growth and have the opportunity to help another. As a Compeer volunteer, you will join thousands of other volunteers across the country who come from all walks of life, all races, all religions, and from both urban neighborhoods and rural communities. Training, ongoing education, and support are provided by the Compeer staff. Click here to Volunteer today! or Contact Karen Fox at kfox@meimhc.org or 338-7884X245 How does Compeer work?
New volunteers receive three hours of training from Compeer staff and meet with the mental health professional who referred their new friend to the program before meeting the client they have selected. Ongoing support is offered through quarterly discussion groups and frequent events that include supplemental training. Mental health professionals who refer clients to Compeer, provide initial consultation with the volunteer and are available for backup support. Compeer is regarded as an adjunct to therapy. The Compeer volunteer supports their new friend's recovery while offering respite time to families. The Compeer volunteer is not expected to offer any sort of therapy or support that would not naturally occur in a friendship. You are an equal, not a teacher, therapist, or consultant.
History of Compeer
Impacts of the Compeer Program
In addition, 99% of referring therapists who responded were satisfied with the Compeer services provided to their clients, and 99% of responding volunteers were satisfied with Compeer. Health Care Cost Containment ![]() Compeer Recognition: Compeer has been recognized as a model mental health volunteer program and has been highlighted in print and electronic media including CBS Morning News, NBC Nightly News, Newsweek, Family Circle, and Psychology Today. In addition, the program has received the Presidential Recognition Award by the Department of Health and Human Services, the first Eleanor Roosevelt Community Service Award, the Presidential Volunteer Action Award, four Points of Light awards and recognition from the American Psychiatric Association.
What a difference a friend makes! Home | Compeer National | Special Events | Volunteer Application Form | Volunteer's Monthly Report | Donation Form | Contact Us
This page was last updated on 08/11/2010. |