The mission of TINHIH’s Alternative Peer Group (APGLV) is to introduce alternative ideas about recovery that are driven by peer mentors who create a culture that is recovery friendly for young adults by promoting healthy activities in a nurturing safe environment.

The APG’s positive peer support programs offer 12-step meetings, activities and other resources for students struggling with substance use disorder. The focus of the APG is to help students form new peer groups that utilize positive peer pressure to stay sober. Activities that we offer vary because of the participation from community members and volunteers.

This program is designed to help young adults who are searching for sobriety be able to achieve it. In order for us to be able to provide a strong and reliable program, the team needs to be strong and reliable. We have created core values for the program that will help propel us to success.

First and foremost, Respect; We will learn how to respect our minds, bodies, and souls which will in return teach us how to respect others and the world around us. Privacy; the program offers various group meetings, what you see or hear in the program must stay in the program, unless you have been told by someone that it is okay to share information. Integrity; everyone in the program comes from diverse backgrounds, and the important thing to understand here is that we are all here for the same reason, we act as a unit and we encourage strong moral principles and positive moral. Honesty; Is an important value for those in the program and those helping, everyone is encouraged to speak freely, openly, and most importantly, truthfully. Sharing; is a part of what we do, and we can only understand what is happening with you if you share, no one will judge, criticize or minimize anything someone says. Lastly, have fun; have fun with strong peer groups, find enjoyment in everyday life. Remembering that there is fun without using can go a long way.

Every individual in this program will be held accountable to their actions and should expect a certain degree of responsibility. Also, every individual in the program needs to be committed to the program they are involved in, whether that be through the meetings or organizing an activity for the students.

In an effort to help students struggling with substance use disorder we also need to be creative and imaginative. Opening the mind to dream all the possibilities about living substance free can help them become reality. Being able to dream about a future version of yourself in a positive light is incredible.

Here at the APG attitude is more important than fact. It is more important that the past, education, financial circumstances, failures/success, and/or what people say or think about you. It is the most important factor that can make or break almost anything. The remarkable thing is we have a choice on what our attitude will be.