"“COMPEER has essential attributes needed for people with mental illnesses to live meaningful lives in the community like everyone else.  It is relatively low cost and utilizes natural rather than paid staff supports; creates opportunities for equal and reciprocal rather than hierarchical relationships; activity takes place in the community rather than the agency; and the interactions can combat negative beliefs, prejudice, and discrimination.  COMPEER was possibly ahead of its time when it was founded more than 35 years ago.  The current and future emphasis on recovery and community integrations means ‘COMPEER's time has come.’ ”