Step 1 - Submit Referral

Community agencies make referrals to Compeer on behalf of their client(s) by submitting a referral packet (linked below).

Step 2 - Client Interview

If the client meets the admission criteria, Compeer staff make contact with the client to learn more about their personality, interests, and welcome them to the program.

Step 3 - Waiting For A Compatible Match

The client’s application then goes into a pool of referrals as we look for a compatible volunteer match. Compeer does not match on a first come first serve basis. Instead, it is our goal to make compatible matches so that volunteers and friends will be likely to enjoy their time together. A variety of factors such as age, culture, personality traits, interests, level of client need, level of experience of the volunteer, and geographical location are considered. For this reason there may be a waiting period before a match is actually made. 

Step 4 - Events and Activities

Those on the waiting list will be invited to participate in Compeer socials and activities. Adults and Seniors are include to receive monthly “friendship bags” through our Community Supported Friendship Project.  Youth are invited to participate in thematic mentoring groups (art, hiking, etc).

Step 5 - Compatible Volunteer Identified

When a compatible volunteer match is identified, Compeer staff contact the referring provider to discuss the match compatibility and introduce the volunteer and provider via telephone.

Step 6 - Matching

Once the match is made, the client and volunteer begin spending 4 hours/ month of quality time together! The match is expected to last a year. Volunteers submit monthly reports to the Compeer Manager to gauge success of friendship.

Youth

This program is for youth ages 6 - 17 who would benefit from the support of an adult mentor. Youth must be experiencing a behavioral health concern.

Adults

Referrals must be at least 18 years of age, have a mental health diagnosis, and be at a point in their recovery where they can actively participate in a reciprocal Compeer relationship in the community.

Seniors

This program is for individuals 62 and older who would benefit from supportive friendship to prevent worsening mental health concerns. Those who are home-bound or living in a facility are still eligible to participate.

Below are some examples of individuals who may be a good fit for our Adult and Senior programs. If you would like a more detailed outline of our eligibility guidelines, please refer to the downloadable version of our infographic below. MHA understands that each person has individualized needs. We are always willing to meet with a provider or individuals one-on-one to determine eligibility.