PEER
MENTORING
AND YAVP
“A link to the resources you need!“
Helping transitional aged youth adults ages 16-25
CONTEXT
General Description
Events
Peer Mentors
Contact Information
WHAT IS A PEER MENTOR?
At some point, in our lives we have received
services, now we use our experiences to support
young adults. This DMH funded service was created
with the goal of supporting transitional age youth,
ages 16-25. Both mentors have had experience with
the system, helping them relate to young adults
struggles. We feel it is import to honor people’s
goals. Ultimately, the individual decides their
educational and/or vocational path. We arrange a
variety of social activities so they can socialize and
develop relationships. Acting as a link to resources
and services can foster independence and
create/strengthen advocacy skills.
EVENTS/EDUCATION/WORK OPPORTUNITIES
Games nights
-Join us in playing pool, the Wii, board
games and more.
Beach outings
One on one support and outreach
-The peer mentors meet with
individuals at YAVP and in the community. We work
with people on public transportation, applying to
college, obtaining employment and more.
Bowling Events
- One of the better events for getting
to know people and interact with peers.
Internships;
YAVP has partnered with local businesses to offer
supported employment. These are a few examples.
Bigfoot Moving Company
Arlington Robbins Library
The Computer Café
Minuteman Senior Services
Nutrition Group
- A chance to learn how prepare a
Sustainable Arlington
Magic Dragon Comics
Arlington Farmers Market
healthy yet simple and delicious meal with out
Boston Area Gleaners
breaking your budget!
Rogers Pierce Daycare Centers
Movies
Waltham McDevitt Middle School
EVENTS
Seminars
We have facilitated groups on communication,
done role-plays to demonstrate the difference
between effective and ineffective communication.
Holiday Party
Every year we have a holiday party. At the
party we have a Yankee Swap, a
magician, a cartoonist and more.
Sustainable Arlington
A non-profit organization that picks up
and drops off donated food from
companies, such as Panera and
Newsletter Group
Tom gets input from members about what they
would like to contribute to the newsletter. Then
interested members will write articles for the
newsletter.
Starbucks. Members collect and
package food for drop offs to food
pantries and other community
organizations.
Social activities
We have many different events, some
Meals On Wheels
with other programs, while others are
specifically for peer mentoring. We had
an ice cream social, have attended
sporting events, done lazertag and more.
WHO ARE WE?
GET TO KNOW THE MENTORS…
SUSAN KEILEY
Peer Mentor
I used to think that depression
was my destiny. Even though
my journey was long and
difficult, my life turned a
corner. After meeting other
young adults who struggled
with their mental health, I was
able to see that recovery is
possible. Without my
experiences, I would not be the
courageous person I am today.
My passion, dedication, and
strong work ethic, have
influenced my career in human
services. I want to be a role
model for other young adults.
Today, I try to educate young
adults by applying the
advocacy skills I have learned,
to assist them in creating a
meaningful life.
THOMAS CASTELLINE
Peer Mentor
Everyone has hard times in their life. Having a mental
illness is definitely hard to face and to recover from.
When I was in treatment I used to always think about
wanting to help people. Now as a Peer Mentor I have a
very positive, unique, and supportive role to play in the
lives of our members. Sharing and relating my lived
experience, utilizing my wellness tools such as
identifying goals and strengths makes me feel like I’m
making a difference in the lives of our young adults.
Hopefully my story will offer hope and inspiration and
allow the young adult to feel less intimidated about
talking about what they went through. My motto is
“Never give up hope “, no matter how tough life can
get. Having pride in my recovery and making a positive
connection with young adults will hopefully encourage
and inspire them. Having a mental illness doesn’t
define you. Your hopes and dreams and what you want
to do with your life and having courage to make
something of yourself defines you.
How Can You Reach Us?
Contact Program Director:
Ray Thomas:
Email: Susan [email protected]
Tom: [email protected]
Phone: (781)-643-5093
Fax: (781)-643-8056
http://www.yavp.org
WHERE ARE WE LOCATED?
OUR OFFICE IS LOCATED AT:
6 0 L O W E L L S T R E E T , 2 NDF L O O R
ARLINGTON, MA, 02476