Program Overview

The Counseling Center provides multiple opportunities for students to get involved through education and training. Harm Reduction Peers (HaRPs) are volunteer peer educators who provide outreach and education on harm reduction strategies for safer alcohol and drug use. This includes advocating for safer substance use, breaking down myths about alcohol and other drugs, and fostering connections among the Illinois campus community.

Harm Reduction Peers Mission

This opportunity is available to all students regardless of their major or professional background as hands-on education is provided. HaRPs complete NASPA’s Certified Peer Educator training with staff or by taking HK 113 (Peer Education and Harm Reduction Skills) in the Spring semester prior.

HaRPs host Sober Happy Hours, plan and facilitate large-scale events, collaborate with the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District on Narcan trainings and distribution, promote awareness around 4/20 and other potentially substance-heavy events, and create educational/social media campaigns. Other tabling events/workshops are determined throughout the school year.

This volunteer opportunity is especially beneficial for students who are interested in:

• Gaining public speaking skills
• Peer support/education
• Public health/awareness campaigns
• Designing social media outreach
• Facilitating workshops on harm reduction
• Developing leadership opportunities
• Event planning
• Any helping professions/careers

Meeting Times and Activities

Harm Reduction Peers meetings are held weekly on Thursdays from 4-5 p.m. After training and orientation, all members have a voice in deciding how to implement programming. The program coordinator and graduate assistant provide ongoing support and professional development opportunities. 

HaRPs host Sober Happy Hours, assist with National Alcohol/Cannabis Screening Day, collaborate with the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District on Narcan trainings and distribution, promote awareness around 4/20 and other potentially substance-heavy events, and create educational/social media campaigns. Other tabling events/workshops are determined throughout the school year.

To request a workshop from the Harm Reduction Peers, complete this form.