Aug 26, 2002 By Patty Shultz 3 min read

CONNELLSVILLE – A kick-off party to introduce a program that matches volunteers with those in need of companionship drew approximately 100 to the Youghiogheny Park. Cyndi Swallop, coordinator of the Compeer program, said she was pleased with the participation by local residents in supporting the effort.

“It’s great to see people of all ages come out to help one another,” she said of the recently held event.

The program, sponsored by the Fayette County Mental Health Association, promotes awareness of mental illness and its effect on millions of people.

“Many people are frightened by the words mental illness,” said Swallop. “We want to alleviate some of the fears by educating our volunteers.”

After participating in a three-hour training program, the volunteer is matched with one of the Compeer consumers.

During the month, the volunteer is asked to spend four hours with their “friend” in an activity that is agreed upon by the two of them or in attendance at a program function.

“You volunteer at times that are mutually convenient for you and your friend,” said Swallop. “You can participate in a planned group activity or simply have coffee with your new friend.”

Each month the volunteer is required to submit a report about the activities.

Swallop said those unable to volunteer the four hours per month, can also participate in the Compeer program by becoming a pen pal with one of the consumers.

Those taking part in the correspondence program are asked to send cards, notes or other written message twice each month to their Compeer friend.

According to Swallop, statistics indicate that participation in the companion program helps the consumer improve social skills, decrease the number of psychiatric hospital stays and stay in compliance with medication and treatment plans.

“It’s also a positive experience for the volunteer,” said Swallop. “It’s a chance to gain volunteer or community service hours while participating in a activity you enjoy and to share it with someone else.

“It’s also an opportunity to help someone recover from a mental illness.”

Connellsville resident Annetta Parfitt said she was drawn to the program simply because she likes to be with people.

“I’ve been very blessed in my life,” said Parfitt. “I have my health, my family is in good health and if I can help someone, I will.”

She is hoping to be matched with someone from the local area and plans to take part in several activities planned through the Compeer program.

“I used to go line dancing a lot, but I haven’t done it in a long time,” she said.

“I think it would be great fun to do it with someone or to take them shopping. I really am looking forward to it.”

While she waits for her assigned companion, Parfitt said will be taking part in the pen pal program and encouraging her friends to join her in the effort.

“I think this is a good program and I hope it’s very successful,” she said.

For more information about the program, contact Swallop at 724-438-6738 or by e-mail at cswallop@mhainfayettecounty.org