School Programs
NATURAL HELPERS OF MAINE
Started in 1985, the Natural Helpers program is rooted in the natural network of ‘teens helping teens’ that exists in every school. When recognized and effectively utilized, this network can play a primary role in the school’s overall prevention and helping systems addressing substance abuse and other high-risk behaviors. This helps to create an environment of respect and personal responsibility within the school community and strengthens the educational environment. By providing these Natural Helpers with training in listening, communication and referral skills, as well as guidance and support for appropriate limit-setting in their own activities, this network is strengthened and often drawn into partnership with the helping professionals in the school.
“It is a great program. Being a new student, Natural Helpers made me feel welcome at my new school.”
How it Works:
National research has demonstrated that peer programs are among the most effective prevention programs that can be implemented, and that the best way to assist teens in developing positive behaviors is to ask other teens to provide that assistance. Simply put, teens will often talk to teens before they talk to adults.
At the beginning of the school year, students in each participating school nominate peers to be Natural Helpers. They are asked to name someone whom they would feel comfortable going to with a personal problem or issue of concern. These are peers who have a natural ability to listen, empathize, and be supportive. Those nominated to be Natural Helpers attend a two-day Fall Retreat, where they learn critical listening skills and how to identify and deal with Red Flag issues. These issues include substance abuse, eating disorders, suicide, harm to self or others, and abuse. Natural Helpers are also trained to know what resources are available in their school community, so that they can refer their peers to the appropriate people who can give professional support. The Natural Helpers are also coached on developing action plan strategies to address areas they identify as key issues in their school community. Day One provides technical assistance to Natural Helpers groups throughout the school year as they implement their action plans.
The Natural Helpers of Maine is tailored to best meet the needs of each participating school. Initially, 10 students and 2 adult facilitators attend the two-day Fall Retreat. The program also offers regular meetings with Adult Facilitators and Student Coordinators and additional, one-on-one trainings/workshops with individual schools. Schools also get the benefit of access to a skilled and knowledgeable staff at Day One who have extensive backgrounds in Prevention. Later in the school year, students and adult facilitators continue to expand their communication skills during the Spring Conference.
Where it is:
The Natural Helpers program serves students in High Schools across Maine. The program serves students in Aroostook, Cumberland, York, Androscoggin, and Oxford Counties. There are Natural Helpers of Maine programs in the following high schools: Bonny Eagle, Casco Bay, Cape Elizabeth, Deering, Falmouth, Fort Kent, Greely, Old Orchard Beach, and Scarborough.
How do you get it in your school?
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SCHOOL POLICY
Day One has been providing education, training and outreach services by partnering with schools and their communities for over 30 years to bring increased awareness about the effect of adolescent substance abuse. Day One provides assistance to schools on developing substance abuse policy and appropriate curricula.
How It Works:
School resources include:
- Testimonials by recovering teens - Graduates from Day One treatment programs share their experience and their recovering lifestyle.
- Day One’s Guide to Substance Abuse Services for Schools (click here pdf).
Where it is:
Throughout the State of Maine
How do you get it in your school?
For more information, contact Don Burke, Director of Outpatient Services, 874-1045 x 114 or donb@day-one.org.
SCHOOL BASED SERVICES
Day One has substance abuse counselors in a number of schools throughout southern Maine. To find out if we are in your school call the Outpatient office at 207.874.1045.
