Project HOPE, an active campus club, provides education and support for students to make informed decisions about their health.
“We promote education and awareness,” said Jennifer Baker, the program’s adviser.
The club keeps up-to-date on information regarding health issues that may affect college students.
“In the past, it’s definitely been HIV and STD’s,” said Baker. “Now our focus is really alcohol.”
Not only do the club’s participants receive updated health information from several local committees and college researchers, they are ready to inform students about DUI fines and the costs of drinking and driving.
Baker said they try to spread knowledge by organizing events to stay involved with students. Last spring, the club planned the Safe Spring Break event. Baker said there were at least 40 organizations on campus supporting the club. Students attending the event were given fliers with facts about sex and alcohol, free condoms and free ice cream.
Baker said it was one of her favorite events, she said, because it was wonderful to see the students having a great time and finding community support.
Project HOPE gave away pumpkins and candy Oct. 26 and 27 to students who participated in their beer goggle simulation and obstacle course. Along with Halloween treats, the students were given mini-pamphlets listing facts about alcohol offenses, the signs and symptoms of alcohol poisoning and how to use a condom properly. There was also information about additional police patrols in downtown Santa Barbara and I.V. areas planned for the Halloween weekend.
Baker said she hopes these kinds of events will “give students the opportunity to interact with Project HOPE and let them know we are here.”
Students can drop by the Health Center in the Student Services building any time for information.
“Our message is really about choice,” said Baker. “We want to give students the opportunity to learn, not tell them what they can’t do.”
Baker said the club’s students working are trained as certified peer educators and can offer support to students.
Project HOPE is also involved with the free anonymous HIV testing offered in the Health Center.
Maraya Hull, a student working with Project HOPE said she finds the experience rewarding.
“I feel like I am making a difference,” she said.
Skyeler Congdon, another student involved with the club, said he enjoys having the chance to help others.
“I find it reassuring to be surrounded by other people who want to make a difference,” said Congdon.