Natural Helpers of South Dakota is a peer-led prevention and early-intervention program that empowers middle and high school students to support one another in healthy, effective, and developmentally appropriate ways. The program is built on the principle that young people most often turn to trusted friends when experiencing stress, emotional challenges, or risky situations. By identifying and training these naturally trusted students and adults, Natural Helpers strengthens informal support networks within schools and improves the overall climate of safety, connection, and well-being.

The program uses anonymous student surveys and staff recommendations to identify a cross-section of students and school adults. This school-wide survey asks who participants frequently go to when they need help, such as friends, parents, an adult at school, or an adult outside of school. Students are also asked what top five school concerns are major issues for students. Then participants list two adults they feel comfortable talking to about problems and two students they trust when they need help.

Students and staff identified as Natural Helpers are then invited to participate in a training retreat in addition to ongoing training where they will be taught skills including: