Brain Injury Alliance Of Nebraska Launches New Peer Mentorship Program

Adjusting to life after a brain injury can often feel lonely and challenging. A person may seem similar to who they were before the injury, but for them, life has changed. Things and activities that once were easy may have become more complex–making it harder to achieve the dreams and goals they held dear. There are new systems to figure out, new ways of doing things, new obstacles to overcome, and few people who understand this new world to navigate.

The Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska (BIA-NE) is excited to announce the launch of its Peer Mentorship Program. Modeled and adapted from a successful program by the Brain Injury Alliance of Colorado, the program connects people who have experienced a brain injury with others who have gone through similar situations in a one-on-one mentoring relationship.

Executive Director, Peggy Reisher says, “The Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska recognizes there is a need for individuals to connect with individuals who have ‘been there and done that.’ We are delighted to be able to offer this program in Nebraska.”

How the Program Works:

After completing an orientation session and interview, MenDi McCuiston, the Peer Mentorship Program Coordinator, will match the participants with a trained volunteer mentor. In the orientation, individuals will learn about the program, receive answers to questions, and provide information about their goals, needs, and why they are interested in being mentored. While preferable that participants receive a referral from a member of the Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska's Resource Facilitation team, it is not a requirement of the program.

Once the Program Coordinator understands the individual's situation, she will work to match the participant with a mentor who can relate to them on a similar level – someone who may have had a similar injury or similar symptoms after their injury and can act as peer support.

Upon connecting with a mentor, participants will get to know each other, set goals, set expectations, and how often to meet. BIA-NE expects most mentor relationships to last up to six months to a year to meet the goals set in the beginning.

McCuiston says, “Our mentors are excited for the opportunity to help those beginning their journey after brain injury. After getting to know those individuals who stepped up for the mentor role, I am excited to help make the connections that will form into relationships that benefit the mentor and mentee.”

Individuals interested in the program can learn more at: https://biane.org/events/peer-mentorship-program.html.