Outriggers

Who are Outriggers Peer Educators?

 

out·rig·ger [definition]-a framework extended outboard from the side of a boat; supporting a float that gives stability.

Just like the definition of an “outrigger” states, Outrigger Peer Educators are dedicated to helping others maintain balance and improve all aspects of their organization.

Outriggers Peer Educators work by request to develop individualized and collaborative programs catered to the particular desires of the organization in need.  Outriggers provide the opportunity for organizations to recognize and fulfill their own highest potential. Ultimately, Outrigger Peer Educators are “Peers Helping Peers Help Themselves.”

Mission Statement

Our Mission…..

Outrigger Peer Educators are students facilitating organizations’ development to effectively reach their potential and empower independent success.

       “Peers Helping Peers Help Themselves”

 

Here’s How It Works!

Outrigger Peer Educators provide the opportunity for organizations to recognize and fulfill their own highest potential. Ultimately, Outrigger Peer Educators are “Peers Helping Peers Help Themselves.”

- Do you have new members?
- Does your executive board need more leadership training?
- Does your group need to be re-energized or motivated?
- Do you wish your group worked better as a team?
- Do your group communication skills need improvement?

Then a personalized Outrigger Program is what you need!

Here’s how it works:

1. Fill out the Request Sheet

2. Please submit your request at least two (2) weeks prior to when you would like the program to take place. We can accommodate programs to fit your time schedule. Great for mixing up your weekly meeting or add to training, retreats, etc.

3. We will contact you to confirm details and learn more about your organization.

4. Outrigger members plan a program just for your organization and group goals.

5. An Outrigger team will facilitate your personal program!

Download the Request sheet!

We can’t wait to work with you! If you have any questions or comments please contact the Outrigger PA, Loucita Fuhrmann at jmu.outriggers@gmail.com. Please feel free to stop by the Outrigger office in Taylor 232.

Meet the Outriggers

Carly Munn

Daniel Hanson

Elyse Krachman

Erin Bohannon

Joseph Wieland

Kelsey Paylor

Loucita Fuhrmann

Michael  Ferrante

Nicolas Pineres

Rebecca Cross

Rebecca Lamb

Marly Arbaiza

Leslie Brittain

Alexandra Berkowitz

Kelsey Moore

Rachel McAuley

Katherine Ross

Jenna Stone

FAQ’s

Why are we called Outriggers?

- An Outrigger is actually a narrow float attached to a sea-going canoe, by projecting spars, for stabilizing support. Are you thoroughly confused? Imagine that you are part of an organization that is drifting in every direction but the right one. You don’t see how this organization is going to hold itself together. In comes Outriggers to provide support and stabilize the organization by allowing it to pull itself back together. You have to admit it’s a neat analogy.

Why are we considered peer educators?

- The motto of Outriggers is “Peers helping peers help themselves.” The word “educator” is almost misleading because our purpose is not to “teach” the organizations we work with. What we do is provide them with an opportunity to educate themselves. We do that by developing helpful programs and facilitating meaningful discussion. Remember, we are the support; your groups do all the learning on their own.

What exactly do Outrigger Peer Educators do?

- Simply put, we facilitate interactive, team-oriented workshops for other organizations. Our services are requested by organizations, classes, and offices who want us to help achieve a goal. Sometimes the goal is just getting to know one another. Other times, the organization is experiencing  problems and wants us to help them overcome difficulties. The role of Outriggers is not to solve problems by giving the solution. Rather, our job is to do what it takes to help groups solve their own problems.

What kinds of groups request our services?

- For the most part, we work with campus organizations. Examples have included sororities, business fraternities, residence halls, and honor societies. We have also been requested by professors who want programs for their classes. Outriggers also enjoy taking their programs into the community and working with grade schools and recreation centers.

What does it mean to “facilitate”?

- Facilitating refers to making something easier. In the case of Outriggers, that something is discussion. Facilitating means asking open-ended questions that get your audience talking and sharing ideas. Facilitating means being an active listener and following up the groups’ thoughts with the right questions. A good facilitator is one that rarely has to talk at all.

Want to be an Outrigger?

We look for members who…
- Are energetic (silly)
- Enjoy teamwork, communication and FUN!
- Willingness to learn & help others
- Able to commit (long term – 3 semesters at least)
- Feel comfortable speaking in front of others
- Enjoy family style organizations
- Creative stylish shoes (you’ll find out why)

We are currently not accepting applications, but look out for our Membership Drive next Semester!

Questions? Contact the Outrigger PA, Loucita Fuhrmann, at jmu.outriggers@gmail.com.