EMPOWER Program Invites U of A Students to Serve as Peer Mentors

University Relations

In a photo taken prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, peer mentor Micah Stenfeld, left, talks with EMPOWER students at the Arkansas Union.

The University of Arkansas EMPOWER program is seeking students to serve as peer mentors.

EMPOWER is a post-secondary, non-degree program for individuals with mild intellectual disabilities. The goal of peer mentorship is to create an inclusive learning and socialization environment for all students.

Students will be able to participate in virtual mentorship or in-person academic and social mentorship while following the university's COVID policies and procedures.

Peer mentors work with EMPOWER students in class to assist as necessary with note-taking and outside of class with navigating campus life. Mentors and mentees work on social skills, daily living skills such as setting an alarm and checking email and Blackboard, and academic tasks including tutoring.

A Short Takes video about the program offers more information.

To discuss becoming an EMPOWER peer mentor, contact Ashley Bradley, director of EMPOWER, at 479-575-5214 or arbradle@uark.edu or Amanda Wallace, volunteer services coordinator, at 479-575-5497 or aw008@uark.edu.