Schools across the country are preparing to celebrate the incredible impact of student leaders during National Peer Helpers Recognition Week, March 30 – April 3, 2026. Sponsored by the Association of Peer Program Professionals (APPP), this week highlights the powerful role students play in supporting one another and building stronger, healthier school communities.
Peer helping programs empower students to provide support, encouragement, and leadership within their schools. Trained peer helpers often serve as mentors, listeners, conflict mediators, and positive role models. Because students frequently turn to friends before adults when facing challenges, peer helpers can be an essential part of a comprehensive student support system.
National Peer Helpers Recognition Week is the perfect opportunity for schools and communities to celebrate these student leaders and raise awareness about the value of peer support programs.
Download the National Peer Helper Week Resource Kit
To make celebrating easy, APPP offers a National Peer Helper Week Resource Kit designed to help schools plan meaningful recognition activities. The kit includes ideas and tools that allow schools to celebrate in ways that fit their unique culture and community.
The resource kit helps schools:
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Recognize the dedication and service of peer helpers
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Promote awareness of peer support programs
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Encourage student leadership and engagement
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Highlight the positive impact of peer helping on school climate
Schools can use the kit to host activities, organize recognition events, share peer helper stories, and promote the importance of students helping students.
Start or Strengthen a Peer Helping Program
For schools that are interested in starting a peer helping program—or strengthening an existing one—the Association of Peer Program Professionals also provides training and professional support for educators, counselors, and youth-serving organizations. APPP offers guidance on building effective peer programs, training student leaders, and implementing best practices that support safe, structured, and impactful peer helping initiatives.
Whether your school already has an established program or is just beginning to explore peer helping, this week is a wonderful time to celebrate student leadership and the power of peer connection.
Download the National Peer Helper Week Resource Kit, celebrate your student leaders, and consider partnering with APPP to create or enhance a peer helping program in your school or community.
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