Help support survivors!
SHARPP Peer Advocates work directly with survivors of interpersonal violence to support them after an experience of violence. They staff our 24/7 helpline and support survivors by providing emotional support, information, and resources on the telephone, as well as providing in-person support at the hospital, police station, and other areas.
Who is eligible to be a Peer Advocate?
Undergraduate students with dedication and a desire to work directly with individuals who have experienced interpersonal violence are eligible to become Peer Advocates. A criminal background check & campus conduct check will be required at the end of training.
For graduate students interested in working on SHARPP's helpline, please contact our Direct Services Coordinator about becoming a Back-Up Advocate.
How do I become a Peer Advocate?
To become a Peer Advocate, each student must complete a minimum of 30 hours of training as required by New Hampshire law. This training is being offered in a multi-day summit format, after which students will:
- Understand SHARPP’s mission and the role of Peer Advocates in our program structure.
- Understand the scope of services provided by Peer Advocates as compared to program staff.
- Develop communication skills to work with individuals, including but not limited to empathic listening, validation, and safety planning.
- Acquire knowledge related to brain- & body-based responses to trauma, dynamics of interpersonal violence, and systems involved in the campus, medical, & legal responses to sexual assault, relationship abuse and stalking.
When is the next training?
Fall 2024 Peer Advocate Training will take place during the dates & times listed below. Attendance at all sessions is required. Registration will open Monday, August 26 and close Sunday, October 6. Meal breaks and snacks are included, and SHARPP will provide swipes into the dining hall for students who do not have a meal plan.
- Saturday, October 19 | 11am-6pm
- Monday, October 21 | 5:30-9:30pm
- Wednesday, October 23 | 5:30-9:30pm
- Monday, October 28 | 5:30-9:30pm
- Wednesday, October 30 | 5:30-9:30pm
- Saturday, November 2 | 11am-6pm
- Monday, November 4 | 5:30-9:30pm
- Wednesday, November 6 | 5:30-9:30pm
- Wednesday, November 13 | 5:30-9:30pm
- Monday, November 18 | 5:30-9:30pm
- Wednesday, November 20 | 5:30-9:30pm
- Monday, November 24 | 5:30-9:30pm
If you have any questions, please reach out to SHARPP's Direct Services Coordinator.
What is the time commitment?
After completing the required training and once approved by SHARPP’s Direct Services Coordinator, students should expect to staff our 24/7 helpline for 150 hours each semester (average of 2 shifts per month). Shifts are either 16 or 24 hours long, and are self-selected by each advocate.
What is expected of me after training?
In addition to staffing the helpline throughout the semester, Peer Advocates are asked to:
- Commit to SHARPP for a minimum of 2 semesters (spring & following fall)
- Attend 1-hour monthly meetings throughout the academic year
- Complete 10 hours of continuing education each academic year (your coursework or attendance at campus events may count!)
- Attend SHARPP’s events for annual Awareness Months in October & April
If you have questions about becoming a Peer Advocate, please contact our Direct Services Coordinator or Survivor Advocate.
