Peer Assistant Program
The purpose of the "Peer Assistance program" To provide newly injured person, or
persons who are having trouble adapting, an opportunity to talk to "others" who
share similar experiences and circumstances. This is a process by which a person
with a disability, through their skilled training, personal experiences, and desire
to help, offers assistance to others with a disability.
Who are Peer Assistants?
A Peer Assistant is a person with a spinal cord injury or disease who has been selected
and trained by the Peer Assistance Program Screening Committee. This individual
has demonstrated effective independent living and adaptation in the community for
a minimum of one year following the onset of there disability. The person has agreed,
on a volunteer basis, to provide resource information, understanding on various
issues including :
- Activities of daily living
- Coping with self and body image
- Dating and relationships
- Learning self advocacy &
assertiveness
- Recreational & leisure time
activities
- Awareness of other community
resources
- Equipment modification and repair
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO TALK WITH A PEER ASSISTANT, PLEASE CONTACT THE NSCIA CONNECTICUT
CHAPTER AT (203)284-1045
