News and Events

Every year, more than 2,000 positive teenage role models in Indiana and other states are changing the culture of their communities as they lead by example and help their peers develop the character qualities and skills they need to form and sustain healthy relationships. Peer mentors in 32 counties in Indiana, and in Missouri, New Mexico, New York and Washington reach more than 40,000 adolescents annually at schools and youth-serving organizations that partner with this leadership development model. Mr. Matthew Stark, Principal of Brown County High School, Nashville, Indiana, is one of many administrators who has seen the positive changes that his school's peer mentors are making: "Our peer mentors have changed the texture of our school, and they are making it a better place."

One of PEERS' objectives is to bring mentors together with other like-minded teens from 50 school districts in Indiana in order to provide peer support and strengthen their commitment to have healthy relationships, and avoid risky behaviors, including abstaining from premarital sexual activity and drugs.

2008 ABSTAIN TO ATTAIN Mentors Conference

The PEERS Project brought its 6th Annual Abstain to Attain Mentors Conference closer to home this year. Hoping to make it easier for peers mentors to attend, PEERS held two free one-day events. On Saturday, June 7 at the Geneva Center in north central Indiana, mentors were encouraged to live with passion and purpose. Geneva Center's challenge course increased their personal confidence and their ability to work as a team. On Wednesday, June 11 at Spring Mill State Park in the south central part of the state, mentors learned about communicating their message effectively. Once again, Camp Tecumseh's great leadership staff joined us for team building and leadership development activities. Both events offered great opportunities to build friendship and support among peer mentors from around the state.

2007 ABSTAIN TO ATTAIN Mentors Conference

June 15 and 16, 2007 was an unforgettable weekend as the University of Indianapolis hosted the 5th annual 'ABSTAIN TO ATTAIN' Conference. Nationally known speaker Keith Deltano, using comedy to go where others fear to tread, motivated mentors to make a difference in their schools and communities and taught them to become better communicators. Camp Tecumseh's leadership staff challenged teams of mentors in leadership development and team building activities. Over 150 mentors joined in another great opportunity to make new friends from all over Indiana.

PEERS Mentors Leadership Retreat

PEERS Mentors Leadership Retreat on December 2 and 3 at beautiful Camp Tecumseh, a YMCA camp in north central Indiana, increased peer mentors' personal and team-building assets. Their physical endurance was challenged as teams competed for the ropes course championship. Individually, mentors were encouraged and inspired by newlyweds Peter and Tina McNeilly's chaste example and words of wisdom. The friendships they formed with like-minded teens from around the state were the highlight of their Retreat experience!