Through Compeer's Project Homeless , the quality of life is improved for children and adults with a mental illness who have also experienced homelessness. They are linked with volunteers who serve as a connection to the community. To meet the special needs of local shelters and their residents, other volunteer opportunities include providing transportation for apartment hunting, shopping and doctor appointments, answering the shelter's telephone, tutoring residents and assisting with childcare. Compeer Calling addresses the needs of those who are housebound, both volunteers and those wanting a Compeer friend. These Compeer friendships are enjoyed by phone, which not only provides support and relief from loneliness and isolation, but helps to improve interpersonal skills.
Volunteers can befriend someone their own age, older or younger than themselves.
Young people need emotional support too and volunteers in the Compeer Youth Program provide role models for their young Compeer friends, help prevent anti-social behavior, help build self esteem through their Compeer relationship, and enhance the possibility of avoiding long term placement for the youth in residential treatment facilities. Your task force is only temporary and can disband once an advisory committee has been established. Task force members can become advisory committee members or serve as consultants for future efforts. Be prepared to provide defined job responsibilities and the term requirements. Individuals are more inclined to accept an advisory member position if they know your expectations right up front.