SayPro, in partnership with the United States Peace Corps, is supporting the creation of peer support networks for teenagers to address mental health, school stress, and social challenges. SayPro believes that peer-to-peer engagement is an effective way for teens to share their experiences, build resilience, and reduce stigma. With Peace Corps volunteers, SayPro helps train teen leaders to facilitate group discussions, mediate conflicts, and offer emotional support. These networks are safe spaces where teens can connect authentically. SayPro’s goal is to strengthen youth well-being by enabling teens to support each other in an environment that fosters empathy and mutual growth.
SayPro ensures that these peer networks are youth-led but guided by trained professionals and community facilitators. Peace Corps volunteers collaborate with SayPro to provide communication and emotional intelligence training. Teen participants are taught how to identify signs of mental distress and refer their peers to appropriate services. SayPro also integrates activities such as group journaling, art therapy, and mindfulness practices to promote emotional regulation. These peer groups are hosted in schools, libraries, and community centers. SayPro’s model encourages self-expression, leadership, and proactive mental health management, ensuring teens are heard, supported, and empowered in their local environments.
SayPro tailors each network to reflect the culture and needs of the specific community it serves. Feedback from teens is central to improving program design and delivery. Peace Corps volunteers gather insights through surveys and focus groups, which SayPro uses to refine its training and support materials. SayPro also organizes regional peer network summits, allowing youth from different communities to share ideas and inspire one another. These summits foster cross-community collaboration and introduce teens to broader social leadership. With each network, SayPro creates a sustainable, teen-led support system that builds trust, confidence, and a sense of belonging among participants.
SayPro remains committed to youth empowerment and mental health through peer engagement. With Peace Corps support, SayPro continues expanding its peer network model across schools and community hubs. These groups give teenagers tools to manage stress and build lasting friendships rooted in compassion and shared experience. SayPro’s initiative transforms peer support from informal chats into structured, impactful interactions that uplift entire communities. As SayPro grows its reach, more young people gain access to meaningful connection, encouragement, and leadership opportunities. These networks form the foundation of a healthier, more emotionally resilient generation ready to lead and care for one another.