HEART Peers Mentors are dedicated volunteers who have been personally impacted mass shootings and other traumatic events such as Route 91. They complete a rigorous training and certification process to offer services on an individual basis. They are well-versed in evidence-based best practices to support each other and also have the benefit and guidance of licensed (or otherwise vetted) trauma-informed providers and clinicians who must complete their own training process. The program also hosts First Tuesdays with HEART, monthly online meetings to share experiences and learn about relevant topics from mental health professionals.

What Is Peer Support?

Models of peer support focus on a cultural, shared, lived experience, with an emphasis on the resilience of the individuals involved. Multiple peer-reviewed studies have repeatedly shown these programs have offered solidarity and healing support to communities in need of an additional option to traditional behavioral healthcare services. Peer support is known to have benefits for both the supporter and the receiver as the roles and relationships fluctuate and more formal services are included (when needed).

This peer support initiative has been designed and customized with specific tasks and applications to offer structure and focus to the peer support experience. HEART is an enhancement of resources to expand and supplement existing services and supports that communities build as a family after being touched by violence.

If you are interested in being matched with a HEART Peer Mentor, please complete the interest form below and someone from HEART or the center will be in contact soon. (Click here if the form below is not displaying correctly.)