Peer Mentoring
Empowering Growth
Through Peer Support
A Peer Mentor is someone with a developmental disability who is trained to help others with similar experiences. They offer support, share what they’ve learned, and help you advocate for yourself, make choices, and be more independent. Peer Mentors understand what you are going through because they’ve been there too.
The Arc of Virginia began partnering with the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS) in 2018 to help build and manage the statewide Peer Mentor Support System.
We focus on training, outreach, and supporting the program, but we
do not provide direct services. Instead, DBHDS licenses Provider Agencies across Virginia. These agencies employ and supervise the Peer Mentors who provide the direct support.
Introducing Tech Mentors
Peer Mentors can choose to be certified as Tech Mentors! Tech Mentors specialize in helping to identify everyday technology solutions-smartphones, tablets, apps & home devices- for greater independence at home, at work and in the community.
Through this support, Tech Mentors help develop practical digital skills that promote greater self-reliance and inclusion.
Funding Sources and Eligibility
Who is Eligible for a Peer Mentor?
DBHDS: DD Waiver
Those who are 16 years of age and have a Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waiver,
 may be eligible for
Peer Mentor Support
DBHDS: DD Waivers Waitlist
Those who are 16 years old and on the Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waivers Waitlist may be eligible for
Peer Mentor Support
DARS: Real Pay for Real Jobs
Those who are 16 years old and live in the Western or CAPITAL regions may qualify for
Peer Mentor Support. Ask your VR Counselor to get connected.
Matching with a Mentor
Selecting the right Peer Mentor is important to ensure you get the support that fits your needs. We will help connect you with a Mentor whose experience and approach align with your goals, making for a positive and helpful experience.
Mentors are trained by The Arc of Virginia and use their lived experiences to support you. Meet the Mentors below.
Not sure who the best match is?
Contact Natasha Cooper for help choosing the right Mentor for you.
Ready to get started?
Complete the interest form to tell us a little more about you and your goals.
Meet The Mentors
Click the image to read the bio
Linda Booth
Fairfax County
Dorothy Clark
Virginia Beach
Pastor Eric Cottrell
Danville
Carly Dolan
Powhatan
Interested in learning how to become a Peer Mentor?
Contact Natasha Cooper for more information.
Provider Agencies:
Each Peer Mentor is employed by a Provider Agency that supervises their work and coordinates the service based on DBHDS guidelines, helping ensure a positive experience for every Mentee. Currently, there are two approved Provider Agencies.
To learn more about the current Providers, click their logo!
Disclaimer: The Arc of Virginia does not provide direct services or supports. We work with DBHDS to support the Peer Mentor Support system in Virginia by providing training, outreach, and coordination.