Compeer of Lebanon County’s mission is to improve the quality of life for people recovering from mental illness through the power and gift of friendship.  In the Lebanon Valley Compeer has been making new friendships for over 10 years!

Compeer of Lebanon is a program that matches caring, sensitive, trained volunteer with persons recovering from mental illness in one-to-one friendships.

The Compeer Program realizes how valuable friendship is to people who are recovering from mental illness.  * At any given time, 30-45 million Americans suffer from mental disorder.  *A very small percentage of those being treated for mental illness are in the hospital.  *Most are coping with their illness in the community.  * Mental illness can affect anyone.  People with mental illness can come from any class of society.  They are often linked by the common denominator of devastating loneliness.

To stay on the road to recovery,  a person with mental illness needs more than traditional therapy can offer – they need the support of a friend – they need a Compeer friend!  The simple gift of friendship can often restore joy and hope to a person who is often empty of both.

Compeer of Lebanon recruits, screens, trains and matches volunteers in one-to-one friendship relationships with adults who are receiving mental health treatment.  Volunteers become positive role models, help raise self-esteem, increase social and communications skills and encourage independence for their Compeer friends.  The Compeer Program is committed to providing acceptance and friendship to consumers of mental health services so that they may attain a healthy level of functioning and sense of belonging in the Lebanon Valley community.

For more information receiving Compeer services or to become a Compeer Volunteer call our office at 272-8317.