Help support survivors!
SHARPP Center Peer Advocates work directly with survivors of interpersonal violence (IPV) 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 residence halls.
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 directly supporting survivors at UNH by working on SHARPP's helpline, please contact our Assistant Director of Advocacy 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 offered in a multi-day summit format, after which students will:
- Understand the SHARPP Center’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?
Our next training will be offered in Fall 2025. See dates and times below. Applications will be accepted Monday 8/26 - Friday 9/26. The training is limited to 20 participants. It is expected that participants attend all dates of the training.
Monday 10/6 | 5:30-9:30pm
Wednesday 10/8 | 5:30-9:30pm
Saturday 10/11 | 10:30am-6:00pm
Monday 10/13 | 5:30-9:30pm
Wednesday 10/15 | 5:30-9:30pm
Saturday 10/18 | 10:30am-6:00pm
Monday 10/20 | 5:30-9:30pm
Wednesday 10/22 | 5:30-9:30pm
Monday 10/27 | 5:30-9:30pm
Wednesday 10/29 | 5:30-9:30pm
If you have any questions, reach out to the SHARPP Center's Assistant Director of Advocacy.
What is the time commitment?
After completing the required training and once approved by the SHARPP’s Assistant Director of Advocacy, students should expect to staff our 24/7 helpline for 150 hours each semester (average of 2 shifts per month). Shifts are either 17 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 the SHARPP Center for a minimum of 2 semesters (spring & following fall)
- Complete 10 hours of continuing education each academic year (your coursework or attendance at campus events may count!)
- Attend the SHARPP Center’s events for annual Awareness Months in October & April
If you have questions about becoming a Peer Advocate, please contact our Assistant Director of Advocacy or Survivor Advocate.
