Friendly PEERsuasionSM is a substance abuse prevention program for middle school girls, who learn communication strategies; stress management; resisting peer, media and social pressures to use drugs and alcohol; and leadership skills. It is a two-part program which trains girls ages 11 through 14 to serve as role models and teachers (PEERsuaders) for those who are younger.  As PEERsuaders they receive training to plan and lead substance abuse prevention activities for groups of 10 year-olds.

This program is a unique response to girls’ needs because it approaches drug abuse prevention as a peer issue, using the positive influence of young people modeling healthy behaviors.  Teaching younger girls helps reinforce the PEERsuaders’ learning and resolve not to use harmful substances.

Friendly PEERsuasion SM was developed by Girls Incorporated, considered to be the nation’s leading expert on girls.

Friendly PEERsuasion SM is facilitated by entirely by trained Youth Leaders -- high school juniors or seniors from each community.

We are currently working five middle schools in Salinas, Soledad, Greenfield, Gonzales and Seaside.

Interest in joining
For more information please contact the Girls Inc. of the Central Coast office
(831) 772-0882.