Embarking on a Peace Corps adventure is an exciting yet challenging leap into the unknown. It’s a chance to make a difference, explore a new culture, and grow as an individual. But even the most intrepid explorers need a helping hand, a friendly voice, or a compassionate ear from time to time. That’s where the Peace Corps Peer Support Network (PSN) comes into play.
That’s what the Peer Support Network is—a lifeline. It’s a community of kindred spirits who’ve been there, done that. In this blog post, we’ll help you understand what the Peer Support Network is all about. We’ll show you how it can transform your Peace Corps experience. We’ll keep it informative but we’ll only give you the key information on what you need to know.
What is the Peer Support Network?
The Peer Support Network, or PSN for short, is like your trusty safety net within the Peace Corps. It’s a group of volunteers, specially trained to have your back. Their mission? To support you, link you to resources, and help you weather the storms that might come during your service.
PSN are your fellow Peace Corps volunteers. They’re the backbone of the PSN, and they’ve walked in your shoes. They’re the ones you can turn to when you need a listening ear, some advice, or a friendly chat. It’s like having a buddy who gets what you’re going through.
Let’s face it. You might prefer talking to your fellow volunteers instead of staff when you’re facing challenges. It’s just easier, right? Peer-based support can be very helpful when it comes to mental health. The same holds true in the Peace Corps.
One thing to note is that posts aren’t required to have a PSN, but they’re strongly encouraged to have one. It’s a game-changer, and you’ll soon see why. If your post doesn’t have one, talk to your Country Director about starting one.
Who Are Your Peer Support Network volunteers?
Who are these fantastic folks who make up the PSN? And why are they your lifelines in this incredible journey?
Just who are your PSN volunteers?
Well, they’re none other than your fellow Peace Corps volunteers. Yep, the ones who are right there with you, experiencing the highs and lows of service. They’ve been there, done that. And they’re not just your colleagues. They’re your friends, your confidants, and your partners in adventure.
Why would a PCV consider calling PSN instead of just another volunteer?
“If a volunteer wants to reach out to a fellow volunteer they’re close to, they definitely can by all means. However, a PSN volunteer has had specific training on how to listen to and advocate for other volunteers. Additionally, PSN can help bridge the gap between PC’s resources and the volunteer, something a fellow volunteer may not be able to.”
PSN volunteer
Your Peer Support Network is not a one-size-fits-all kind of deal
PSN is as diverse as the Peace Corps itself. Your PSN volunteers come from various backgrounds and have different experiences. And they bring their unique perspectives to the table. Whether you’re in an urban city or a remote village, you’ll find a supportive network ready to embrace you.
Your PSN volunteers are your go-to team for a friendly chat, a listening ear, and a helping hand. They’re all in for helping you make the most of your Peace Corps journey. When the going gets tough, they’re the ones who’ll be right there with you, sharing stories, offering advice, and lending a shoulder when you need it.
How the Peer Support Network Helps You
Let’s talk about how these amazing folks actually help you navigate the rough patches of your service.
I had been called back to the capital to talk to the country director after a site visit by staff. I was terrified they were going to send me home. I didn’t really want to talk to anyone in my cohort about it, so I called one of the PSN volunteers. She was so supportive. After talking with her, I had a good nights rest and when I went into the CDs office, I was upbeat and confident. Instead of sending me home, they offered to send me to a new site which turned out great.
PCV Mongolia
Sometimes, the solutions to your problems might lie beyond a friendly chat. That’s where your PSN volunteers shine. They can help link you to the resources you need. And they can they point you in the right direction for Peace Corps resources if you need more support.
Your fellow PCVs in the PSN are your sounding board, and your advisors when the going gets tough.
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Peer Support Network Training and Resources
What makes the Peer Support Network (PSN) work so well. It’s about equipping these awesome volunteers with the right skills and resources to support you.
For the PSN to be effective, everyone needs to be on the same page. That’s where their training comes in: PSN members receive specialized training that covers all the essential bases. They learn how to listen actively, express empathy, and guide their peers to the right resources when needed. This training is like their toolkit, ensuring they’re ready to provide the support you deserve.
The learning doesn’t stop after training. Post keeps the ball rolling with regular, structured communication between PSN and PC staff. This ongoing support ensures that PSN stays on track and keeps improving. Your PSN members also help train the new PSN recruits from the next cohort.
Building a Trusting PSN Community
One of the strengths of the PSN is the trust you have in your peers. You’d rather receive support and information from someone who’s been there, right? Successful PSNs take advantage of this to extend social support, create a supportive community, and promote your well-being. They’re your go-to team for a reason.
1) What information is reported back to the PCMO/PC?
Nothing is shared with the PCMOs except in cases where a volunteer is a threat to themselves, someone else or the United States. With that exception in mind, everything between a PSN and a volunteer is completely confidential unless they give their permission to share. The privacy notice is the code we go by, and it’s importance can’t be stressed enough.
PSN volunteer
How can PCVs get the most out of the services that PSN can provide?
- As PSN’s, we’re hoping to spread the word and keep reminding folks about what services there are. Often times volunteers might not know what’s out there or the process on how to use them, and that lack of knowledge hinders any action.
- We also want to get rid of the stigma of using these services, and encourage volunteers to not be afraid or embarrassed for reaching out when they need to. We also want to get the notion out that a PSN can simply be a person to talk to and that’s all.
PSN volunteer
- Many volunteers can feel isolated and have no one to share their day with, good/bad news, or to vent to. This will depend on us PSNs to get that information out in an effective way, but also by building trust between us and the cohort.
So, there you have it – building a trusting community within the PSN. It’s all about trust, inclusivity, ongoing learning, and the power of peer support.
Next Steps
The Peace Corps Peer Support Network (PSN) is more than just a concept; it’s a lifeline waiting for you to grab. Here’s how you can make the most of it:
- Get to Know Your PSN volunteers – Get to know these amazing volunteers, connect, and build those invaluable relationships. They’ve got your back.
- Reach Out When You Need – Don’t hesitate to reach out to your PSN volunteers when you’re having one of those days or when you need advice.
- Participate and Contribute – Consider getting involved in the PSN. Your unique experiences and insights can make the network even stronger.
Your Peace Corps adventure is a one-of-a-kind experience. And, the PSN is here to ensure that it’s a memorable and enriching one. So, embrace it, make the most of it, and know that you’re never alone on this remarkable journey.
Conclusion
As you gear up for this incredible adventure, remember that you’re never alone. The PSN is your lifeline, and your safety net. It’s a community of your fellow volunteers who understand the highs and lows of this journey like no one else.
So, embrace this remarkable journey, make the most of it, and know that this community of support is here for you. Here’s to your incredible Peace Corps journey and the amazing network of peers who’ll be right there with you, every step of the way
Photo Credits:
- Photo by Helena Lopes on Unsplash
- Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash
- Photo by Dan Meyers on Unsplash
- Photo by Larm Rmah on Unsplash
