Description:
A Peer Listener Training Program (PLTP) is being initiated to train local residents with basic knowledge to provide help to the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill impacted communities. The lay listener acts as an advisor, friend, and referral agent for individuals within a community who may not desire to seek professional services, or may not know that help is available.

Peer Listeners should be individuals within a community who are highly trusted, dependable, and discreet resident volunteers. They should be representative of all cultural, ethnic, and age groups within coastal communities. Peer listeners are volunteers that will be trained and then must be willing to commit their time as needed to assist individuals in coping with emotional stress resulting from the oil spill. Success requires a long-term (2-10 year) commitment. Peer listeners come from various sectors including: the fishing industry, tourism, oil and gas industry, educators, clergy, local police, and other public and private sectors affected by the spill. Local mental health professionals, community support organizations and state VOADs are excellent resources to supplement training sessions. A Gulf-wide PLTP begins in mid-July. The PLT will be provided by Dr. Stephen Picou with the University of South Alabama and is coordinated by Gulf of Mexico Sea Grant Programs, USDA Cooperative Extension, Auburn University Marine Center, the Mobile Bay National Estuary Program, and the NOAA Gulf of Mexico Regional Collaboration Team, Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Researve. Phase one of the PLTP will consist of four trainings in Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Florida.

Space is limited to 30-40 individuals per training session. Additional trainings will be offered as needed and after the completion of the first round of trainings. Every peer listener will receive four-hours of training, resource materials, and peer listening DVDs.

How to Participate
If you would like to volunteer to become a peer listener or to recommend a peer listener then please contact the appropriate state lead listed below. You may also register online at: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Peer_Listening_Registration

Alabama Contact Information:
Jody Thompson, Auburn University Marine and Extension Center and Sea Grant Extension:
thomp13@auburn.edu or 251-438-5690