Recently, Rise Up Recovery’s executive director, Ernest Stellingwerff, had the opportunity to go to
Hastings High School and speak with student Peer Helpers. Stellingwerff talks about the importance of addiction prevention and why it’s vital to start addiction prevention early.
In regard to Peer Helpers, KDWA reached out to Kim Hoff, a counselor at Hastings High School. Hoff offered an overview of the Peer Helper Program at Hastings High School. Through email, Hoff says,
“Peer Helpers are students who provide confidential support for fellow students facing challenges. They are dedicated to help students in need of a friend, a listener, support, or encouragement.” Hoff further explains, “The Peer Helper Program provides a select group of students with accurate information, the skills to help others more effectively, and places/resources to turn to when the problem is beyond their ability. Last year our peer helpers made over 3,500 contacts with their fellow students.”
The Peer Helper Program at the Hastings High School is a great resource for students. If you are listening and you’re battling with addiction, know that recovery from addiction is possible. For more information, go to www.riseuprecoverymn.com.
To listen to the full broadcast, click the soundbite.