Who are WVU Peer Advocates?
Peer Advocates with the West Virginia University Peer Advocate program are students of all identities who are committed to responding to students impacted by sexual or intimate partner violence. Student Advocates participate through two 3-credit hour Service-Learning courses, as well as continuing education to gain an in-depth understanding of sexual and intimate partner violence and build effective advocacy skills in response to disclosures of violence. This program trains students to work to end sexual assault and power-based personal violence on campus through prevention education.
Peer Advocates offer the following services, all of which are anonymous:
- Provide referrals and information on student rights and options
- Assist in the development and implementation of programs and initiatives that promote healthy relationships, positive communication, bystander intervention, and consent
- Meet with students to discuss their experience and the resources and options available to them
- Provide on-campus education regarding the issues around Title IX and sexual violence at West Virginia University
- Encourage other students to consider the behaviors, attitudes, and actions that guide their lives
- Help create a campus that is safe and free from sexual violence
What Can Peer Education Do For You?
Peer Advocates have the chance to:
- Assume a leadership position
- Make a positive difference in the lives of friends and peers
- Receive professional training
- Work independently to create model prevention programs
- Build their resumes
We work to create an environment where people are respected by others. We promote awareness of the impact of sexual disrespect on victims/survivors and what constitutes a healthy relationship. Any student is welcome and encouraged to become a WVU Peer Advocate and can become involved by emailing peeradvocates@mail.wvu.edu.