Prevention-Based Programs


Healthy Hawks Thrive!

HERO offers a variety of programs, including health coaching sessions, presentations, outreach, and events to help students reach their health and wellness goals. These programs are covered by the Wellness Fee so there is never a charge at the time of service. HERO welcomes all students within the KU community to attend our programs, presentations, outreach, and events. If you require accommodations or have questions regarding accessibility, please contact hero@ku.edu.

Alcohol, Tobacco & Other Drugs Programs

Four different alcoholic beverage containers sitting on top of a table

Healthy Choices Program

Program regarding alcohol and/or other drugs that offer prevention and wellness education for a variety of real-life situations in a judgment-free and empathetic way.
A variety of vaping and e-cigarette products displayed on a brick surface

KanUquit Program

A six-week vaping and nicotine cessation program with a certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist.

Two students sitting on bench conversing in front of Lindley Hall; one is wearing a Jayhawk Buddy System sweatshirt.

Jayhawk Buddy System

A protective behavior campaign created by KU students to help peers stay safe if they or their friends choose to drink alcohol.

Mental Health & Self-Management Programs

Several students interact with a therapy dog in front of Daily Hill Commons

Animal Therapy Program

Animal therapy (therapy dogs) offers a wide range of benefits for both mental and physical health. There are two signature animal therapy programs offered throughout the semester. And KU departments and student organizations may request therapy dogs for an event on campus from HERO.
Student sitting in a hammock hung among the green trees on campus

Daily Life Program

Program to discuss stressors and discover ways to care for oneself during times of stress.

Nutrition & Food Security Programs

Veggies at the farmers' market

Ask A Nutritionist Program

Program that provides an opportunity to ask nutrition-related questions.
Three KU students are sitting at a table while chopping up cranberries

Cook Well Live Well Program

Cooking classes are offered for student organizations and students living in residence or scholarship halls.
A HERO student employee holding a banana and a sign that reads Fresh Fruit Friday

Eat Well Live Well Program

A six-week individualized nutrition program to assist with meeting personal goals.

Sexual Health & Healthy Relationships Programs

Student holding a Sex Positive Coaching sticker

Sex-Positive Program

A sex-positive approach views sex as a natural, healthy, and positive aspect of human life. The goal is to empower students to feel comfortable and confident in their own bodies and sexual lives.
HERO staff member with a walkie talkie and HERO info card behind a table with safer sex kits

HIV Testing

Free HIV testing by appointment and at outreach events at various campus locations for students, faculty, and staff.

CPR Training

Classroom of people doing CPR training

CPR Training

All CPR training is sponsored by the American Heart Association (AHA) and available for KU students, faculty and staff.