COMMUNITY HELPERS

OSA Community Helpers is a program under Alberta Health Services aimed to promote student wellbeing and provide a link between formal and informal support. 

In every community there are people that others naturally turn to for support: individuals from all walks of life, considered by others to be helpers. Helpers possess characteristics like empathy, care, and compassion. The Community Helpers Program identifies these helpers and offers training to strengthen their natural abilities. 

Helpers learn a variety of topics and skills including effective communication, self-care, coping with stress, knowing when to refer people to professional services, handling crisis situations, and suicide awareness. In addition to developing skills and increasing knowledge, Helpers are introduced to community services and professional supports. This connection bridges informal and formal supports in the community, enabling helpers to refer peers and family to expert support when needed.

The Community Helpers Program also aims to provide students with accurate information and resources and build community capacity for mental health promotion, reducing stigma of mental health and suicide by raising awareness of the factors that contribute to poor mental health.

We hope to make OSA a safe and supportive environment for everyone!