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Peer Educators

Contact: Kaya Chwals
(212) 575-7670 / preventioneducation@hospaud.org

HAI uses improvisational role-play techniques to raise awareness and knowledge. Based on information gathered from focus groups, HAI staff have created theatrical scenarios which address topics relevant to youths. Characters in these scenarios are designed to stimulate discussion within their audiences, on issues that range from domestic violence, drug abuse, unsafe sex practices to gang related issues.

Trained facilitators, along with Peer Educators, dissect each scene in order to explore and understand motivations for behavior and possible resolutions. This process is enhanced by the Peer Educator, who bridges the gap between facilitator and participants.

What are the Benefits of the Peer Education Program?

By becoming a Peer Educator you'll have the opportunity to work hands on with your peers and in the process make a difference in their lives and yours. Working for HAI can expose you to a wealth of information that will be invaluable throughout your high school and college years.

Be an HAI Peer Educator to…

  • Acquire invaluable life skills.
  • Earn extra money while in school.
  • Strengthen your college application.

Here's what some current PE's had to say

"If I got into an argument I would just start fighting. I used to think that was the answer, I'm not like that anymore. I think this program is really helpful, it taught me a lot of things."
Monique Brown, 19 - PE since April 2000 - freshmen at LIU and pursuing a career in acting.

"While working on HAI's Respect Project I was invited to see a workshop at John Jay H.S. in the Bronx. I really liked what they were doing. The PE program gives me the chance to act and help out my community at the same time."
James Lilley, 20 - PE since April 2001 - currently pursuing a career in acting.

What it means to be a Peer Educator

Peer Educators (PE) are expected to be active participants throughout each one hour workshop, helping to motivate participants to be involved, perform improvisational role-plays, and actively listen and participate in discussions. PEs bring experience and first-hand knowledge of the issues facing their peers to each workshop. They work together with facilitators to effectively get points across. Becoming part of this initiative says a lot about your own beliefs and ideals. We hope if you are chosen, you will take pride in the work you do.

Qualification Criteria for Applicants

  1. Must have participated as a student in an HAI workshop prior to submission of application.
  2. Must be between the ages of 16 and 20.

Selection Process

  1. Make contact with guidance counselor/teacher or directly with HAI.
  2. Submit application along with your schedule of availability.
  3. Application is reviewed by HAI staff.
  4. An interview / audition is scheduled.
  5. If accepted into the program those under the age of 18 must have their parent or guardian read and sign a letter of agreement.

If you are selected you are required to...

  1. Observe 2 workshops.
  2. Attend 2 PE trainings (an Intro to Peer Educating and Facilitation)

You will then be...

  1. Booked in a series as soon as one is available according to your schedule.
  2. Evaluated upon the completion of the series.
  3. Assessed after a 3-month probation period.

Training

PEs are required to attend trainings at least once a month and must fulfill 12 hours every six months. Trainings are usually 3 hrs. Trainings are designed to empower PEs with the skills and knowledge necessary to fulfill the critical role they play in HAI's workshops. Typical trainings will involve improvisational acting techniques, conflict resolution skills, and HIV/AIDS medical and technical training. Additional topics may include important social issues such as domestic violence, STD's, sexual harassment, mental disorders and so on.

Each workshop or training is designed to provide the knowledge necessary to enhance a PEs effectiveness in a workshop and also serve the PE in his/her life.

 
 
Updated February 20, 2008
Hospital Audiences, Inc. - 548 Broadway, 3rd Fl - New York, NY 10012
Ph: 212-575-7676 - Fax: 212-575-7669 - hai@hospaud.org