During two intensive six-session sessions - one in November and one in April -Westside Family Health Center (WFHC) staff worked with student volunteers from our 10th grade class.  The focus of the program was sexual development, reproductive health, birth control, STD’s, healthy relationships, substance abuse, and risk reduction skills. 

Participants shared opinions, asked questions, and actively participated in a wide range of activities.  The objective was to have the participants learn risk reduction techniques and to empower them to act as educators and advocates to their peers, thereby increasing safer practices amongst younger people.

A pre and post test and a completed presentation were used to evaluate student understanding and eligibility for certification.  In total, 16 HSA sophomores successfully completed the program and were certified as peer health mentors.

As a follow-up to the program, students worked with HSA Counselor Ms. Rivas to present health related topics to their peers and to conduct and document health focused conversations with their parents and friends.

Our sincere thanks to Julie Kirk and the entire staff of WFHC for giving our students this extraordinary opportunity! 

For pictures from the trainings, visit our photo album.