When children and teens who have experienced multiple losses rediscover themselves in a safe and peer-supported community, hope and resilience flourish.
Since 1997, the Center’s Intercultural Peer Support Program has collaborated with Portland Public Schools and others to serve children, teens, and their families, who have resettled locally from countries experiencing war, persecution, and natural disaster.
Above and beyond losses due to the death of loved ones, they also have experienced collective loss—a community-wide devastation that destroys a sense of place, belonging, safety, and group identity. The Intercultural Peer Support Program promotes healing and resilience in the face of complex traumatic stress and loss by increasing social, emotional, and coping skills; fostering a sense of belonging; and renewing hope. When children and teens experience the benefits of peer support, we see a relief of distress, improved sense of well-being, ability to enjoy rewarding friendships, and ability to complete tasks. These benefits contribute to school success.
YOU can make a difference in these children’s lives! It requires an open heart, completion of training, and a commitment of about 4 hours a week (groups meet weekday afternoons) from November through May. Please visit www.cgcmaine.org for more information about the Intercultural Peer Support Program. Register for one of our one-hour volunteer info session to learn more by contacting volunteer@cgcmaine.org.
