The Gordie Center for Alcohol & Substance Education at the University of Virginia creates and disseminates evidence-based educational programs and materials to decrease the negative consequences associated with hazardous drinking and illegal drug use among college students. Gordie CASE works with students to promote peer intervention and challenge attitudes that accept hazardous drinking and hazing behaviors in order to promote healthy campus environments in which hazing and alcohol poisoning do not occur.
The Peer Health Educators (PHEs) are a diverse group of U.Va. students trained to educate their classmates about college lifestyle and wellness issues in a positive, interactive, fun, and nonjudgmental manner.
Comprehensive training prepares the PHEs to provide confidential patient education sessions; facilitate dynamic outreach programs; encourage physical, mental, and spiritual health; create informative awareness events; and promote community support to create a healthy campus culture. The Peer Health Educators are dedicated to providing education and community support with sensitivity to race, gender, sexual orientation, culture, religion, and individual capabilities.