Peer Connections Mentoring Program

Peer Connections Mentoring Program

Peer Connections is a peer support program that seeks to create and broaden opportunities for students who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender, as well as students who are questioning their sexual orientation or gender identity or are in the process of coming out here at UC Riverside.  Trained Peer Support Buddies connect students to campus resources and community, serving as a mentor through online chats.

Why have a Peer Connections Mentoring Program?

Navigating safe, supportive environments for students to explore their identity and to connect to LGBT campus resources can be a struggle for many students.

Who is this program for?

  • Students who identify as LGBT, queer, same-gender loving, as well as any identity that is typically associated with this community (including, but not limited to, pansexual, genderqueer, intersex, etc.)
  • Students who think they may no longer identify as straight or traditionally gendered, but are not sure.
  • Students who are still searching for an identity or community where they fit in.
  • Those not yet prepared or willing to participate in public activities suggesting a particular sexual or gender identity status.
  • Those in need of support and connection, but not necessarily in need of counseling.
  • Those who fear the loss of family and/or friends.
  • Those who do not yet know how to meet others.
  • Those seeking a role-model.
  • Those looking to remain anonymous.

What are Peer Chats?

Peer Chats are online chats held every Monday evening from 7-9pm during weeks 2-10 of each quarter.  Peer Chats are hosted by Peer Support Buddies, which are current LGBT UCR students trained to help connect folks to resources and community.  Peer Chats are a great way to interact with other LGBT and questioning students, and get answers to questions.  Participants don't even have to step foot on campus to get connected!

Is it private?

Participants can choose their own screen name and remain anonymous while in the chat room.  Participants will be asked for their student ID and name to verify student status, but only the Peer Connections Mentoring Program Coordinator will have that information.  This information will NOT be shared with anyone, including Peer Support Buddies.  No one in the chat room will know the students' identity, unless the students chooses to disclose.  PEER CHATS ARE ONLY OPEN TO UCR STUDENTS.