This summer, PeerForward held its annual Workshops, which train students to be exemplary leaders in their communities and create a college-going culture in their schools.
While residing on a college campus, Peer Leaders prepare for their future postsecondary journey while discovering new ways they can guide their classmates to and through their own postsecondary pathway.
Our first Workshop was held at the University of Nevada Las Vegas. Even in the scorching heat, we had a blast! The spirit of our volunteers and staff uplifted all of us and our Peer Leaders brought the energy. Our second and third Workshops took place on the lovely campus of Washington College in Maryland. The first week of Washington College brought Peer Leaders from across the US and Bermuda to the small college town of Chestertown. The second week of Washington College took the title of our biggest of the season, serving ALL Prince George’s County Public Schools at once! Over the course of their Workshops, Peer Leaders forged close bonds with each other, Alumni, volunteers, and staff. Forming these connections and learning from one another is one of the many ways our Workshops enrich the lives and minds of our Peer Leaders.
At Workshops, our students received the leadership training they need to prepare them for their roles as Peer Leaders. They learned about our three high-impact, student-driven campaigns that they will be promoting throughout the year. They also explored ways to strengthen their own PeerForward teams. They assigned roles, delegated responsibilities, and discussed how they can best serve the needs of their communities.
This season wouldn’t be the same without our incredible cohort of PeerForward volunteers. Writing Coaches and College Coaches. We welcomed over 30 volunteers to serve as postsecondary guides for our students. In small groups, the students met with their Coaches and created a list of best fit colleges and perfected their personal statements. Nearly a third of our volunteer Writing Coaches and College Coaches were PeerForward alumni.
Speaking of PeerForward Alumni, our 2025 workshop season wouldn’t have been possible without our outstanding Alumni Support Team. We welcomed alumni from Bermuda, Kentucky, California, Texas, Maryland, and New York on this journey and their influence will be felt for years to come by our Peer Leaders. Not only did they serve as Operations and Peer Support Specialist, they also made the biggest difference as role models for our next generation of Peer Leaders.
As we wrap up the 2025 Workshop season, we want to take a moment to thank everyone involved in making it a success. From our Alumni Support Team and volunteer coaches to our amazing Advisors, you all make our work possible. We hope to see you again next year!
