Though many have heard of Chamblee’s Peer Helpers, few seem to know what they do.

According to Katherine Marnell, Peer Helpers are trained to advise students on personal problems. “When people are in trouble, Peer Helpers are able to relate and effectively work towards a resolution to the problem.” They also provide peer mediation, though not in conflicts involving fighting. “We help them come up with a common solution within themselves,” said sophomore Vanessa Braimah, one of Chamblee’s Helpers. Mediation can be arranged through Ms. Marnell’s office. The Helpers, part of a national association, begin training in middle school. They learn to communicate with students and to help them find their own solutions to problems, as well as when to refer students to a counselor for more help.

In addition to meeting Tuesdays and Fridays, the Helpers attend seminars on communication and effective listening. “I wouldn’t pay attention to everything, just the parts that sounded important,” said Bramiah. “[Now I] listen to the person fully.”

She encourages people to become Peer Helpers, as much for themselves as for the other students. “It makes me feel rewarded that two people come in with a problem and leave with their problem solved.”