This section looks at two of OSAID's fundamental ideas, peers and leadership. There are some quick explanations and links to further reading.

Peers   What's a peer?

We all need peers.  Peers influence, peers appreciate, peers help and peers are friends.

What it means to be a peer.   OSAID’s fundamental principal is that it is a peer led, peer driven organisation. What exactly does that mean and why are we bringing up here?  Well, you and all the students in your school are peers i.e. part of the same group. OSAID’s message is passed on to Ontario’s youth by Ontario’s youth.  

Peer to peer sessions.   If you’re going to be dealing with a group with the intention of raising awareness about the dangers and consequences of impaired driving, then you’re planning a session. Want  a few tips to keep the session moving along smoothly?  

Developing as a peer.  You are to be applauded for being a volunteer and becoming an awareness raising peer in your school and community! You are an exceptional person to want to do it. You will find it fun, rewarding and memorable. You will also find that not all of it is easy—you are dealing with a hard topic—the leading killer of teens and you may well find some of the work  stressful or upsetting. Have a look at the OSAID tips for developing your skills.

Super Peer checklist.  After you’ve been doing your OSAID work as a peer for a while, you might want to assess your progress as a peer. Check out the Super Peer Checklist!

Leadership     What's a leader?

Encouraging others to follow your lead.   As an OSAID Ambassador or Chapter member, remember the word leadership. You will be  trying to change people’s minds about the issue of impaired driving. You will be trying to    educate them. You will be a leader. Read on to find out about the skills you'll need.

Being a better leader - the OSAID Regional Representative.   As an OSAID Ambassador or Chapter member, you will find after a while that your listening skills have really developed and that people are coming to you for advice about the issues surrounding impaired driving.   So, is that it? No. There are different levels of skill in most things, and  leadership is no different.  If you want to develop your leadership skills further, think about the indicators of good leaders.