First launched in the spring of 2024 by RAHS senior Madisen Lo, the Peer Helpers program has grown significantly over the last year. Lo initially launched the program as a way to offer support for the student body at RAHS, offering a confidential and supportive space to talk with fellow students about mental health.
Over the past year, Peer Helpers has held multiple training sessions on mental health for its student mentors, as well as a variety of activities and events open to participation from the whole school. Training has included discussing family relationships and issues with senior Peer Helper Anna Parker’s mom who is a therapist in the field, as well as a session on substance abuse with RAHS Social Worker Brianna Murphy.
You may remember the information table that Peer Helpers ran last May where they handed out candy, or the hand-made Kindness Day poster that was hung across from the Student Support office just this past fall—both resulting in a successful amount of support for the program. For their end-of-year event this year, Peer Helpers plans to host a school-wide thrift exchange on May 21st, where clothing donated by students will be available to purchase. The exchange will be held in the cafeteria during all lunches, and the event’s proceeds will go towards funding the program next year. If you’re looking to participate (which you should be) there are posters hung throughout the school, as well as multiple boxes designated for donated clothing.
Since the beginning of the school year, Peer Helpers has met with around five students to discuss mental health and offer support—a huge victory for the program and for Lo. Lo previously stated that she was intent on using this program to make a positive impact on the school, and she has done just that. This year has acted as a foundation for the program to grow and continue supporting students in coming years, and Lo and other graduating members are actively looking for new students to keep the program going.
Through advertising on posters, social media, and a presentation to RAHS’ AP Psychology class, Peer Helpers has successfully recruited around 20 applicants to the program. Interviews for potential members will be held in mid-May, with this year’s promising pool of applicants bringing hope for the program’s continuation and success next year.
Whether you’re looking for a new way to participate in RAHS activities or are in need of support from the program, you can find Peer Helpers by scanning the QR codes hung throughout the school via poster, or by following their Instagram @rahspeerhelpers. They’re here to help!
