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Start a Program

How to Start a Compeer Program

Compeer provides friendship to people all over the world living with mental health challenges. Research shows that symptoms such as depression and anxiety decrease when people who feel socially isolated are able to increase their social connections. Our programs are based on the belief that sometimes one friend can have a positive impact on a person’s life. As you consider launching a Compeer affiliate program in your community, the simplicity and intuitiveness of this approach is evident. Please read on for testimonials from some of our affiliates on the significance of the Compeer model on individuals and their communities.
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Words from our Affiliates

Compeer affiliates share what it means to them and their communities to be part of Compeer International and to use the evidence-based Compeer model:
As the founding affiliate, Compeer Rochester is thrilled as we approach 50 years of service to Monroe County. It has been a pleasure to watch Compeer grow and adapt over the years, following the needs of individuals and their families through community-based care. Stories of Compeer friendships echo through our neighborhoods from current and past participants, showing a ripple effect of the power of human connection in healing mental health challenges. We honor Bunny Skirboll for launching Compeer in Rochester and replicating the program; a program proving always ahead of its time and of value to every community in which it exists. We look forward to the future of Compeer International and the development of more affiliates around the world; using the power of friendship and peer support to promote mental wellness for all.
Compeer Rochester in Rochester, NY
Compeer – MHA Cleveland County receives robust support from Compeer International through our interactions with staff, as well as the worldwide network of Compeer affiliates, in volunteer recruitment, case reviews and troubleshooting, grant opportunities, data collection and analysis, and more. The support we have received has been foundational to our program’s continued growth in serving our local community.
Compeer Cleveland County, Shelby NC
At Compeer Sarasota, we provide a unique friendship and mentoring-based program for people living with mental illness. This is a benefit to our area particularly because Florida ranks 43rd in the nation in access to mental healthcare. As a no-cost program, youth and adults are not burdened with any expense in accessing our services. Surveys show our programs result in decreased anxiety and depression, decreased mental health hospitalizations, increased school attendance, higher academic performance and increased participation in community activities. These outcomes are consistent year over year.
Compeer Sarasota-Manatee Counties, Sarasota, FL
How do you measure the effect this program has on individuals? You look at the smiles on people's faces when they are explaining how it makes them feel; you see their tears of appreciation; you witness their laughs and cuddles. Life is tough for so many of our group, but Compeer Canberra is a shining light, giving them hope, compassion and belief in a better tomorrow.
Compeer, St. Vincent de Paul, Canberra, Australia

Next steps to establish an affiliate in your area

    • The process of becoming an affiliate
    • How to research community-based mental health organizations in your area for assistance in defining community need
    • How to identify areas in your community with the greatest need for Compeer
    • How to identify potential stakeholders and form a task force to launch Compeer’s accredited, evidence-based program