This is flexible, while many volunteers choose to spend more time each week. If the volunteer is ill or out of town they may choose to substitute their hour with two phone calls or a postcard by mail. Volunteers receive five hours of training from the Compeer staff and other local mental health providers. Therapists refer their own clients into the program. The volunteer meets the referring therapist.
Volunteers send in monthly reports which keep track of their weekly and monthly hours.
This monthly report also gives the volunteer an opportunity to make suggestions, report concerns, etc. A copy of this report is sent back to the therapist. Volunteers also receive ongoing support from the Compeer staff. Volunteers may call the Coordinator at any time with questions or concerns. Periodically, volunteers may all meet together to discuss their progress with their match, share problems and ideas.