Support groups are another option for finding support. While some parents prefer to have a one-on-one conversation with another parent, others prefer to meet with a group of parents. One of the questions that parents often ask us is, "Is there a support group in my area for families who have children with special needs?" We know there is a need to have more group options all over the state so parents have more choices about where they feel comfortable finding support.

Support groups can have different goals, though their main purpose is to support those individuals who come together around a common agenda. Some groups are informal meetings where participants talk with each other to share information and resources, or to provide emotional support. Other groups ask speakers to bring information on specific topics. Some are age, gender or diagnosis-specific. Others are non-categorical, including a broad spectrum of participants. Some meet with children, some without, and some meet for parties, picnics or outings. Groups can meet for limited periods of time or over the course of many years. I remember nostalgically a "mother's group" that I was a part of for about two years. We didn't call it a support group, but as young mothers of toddlers we all had something in common - toddlers! I still need that same kind of support from a group of parents who have, well - young adults!

Depending on how you define your support needs, the group you are looking for may or may not already exist in your area. If you are lucky, you can become a part of an existing group. If there is no group, can one be started? What if you don't have the time, energy, or ability to commit to start something?

In response to input from parents all over the state, the Family Support Team at Parent to Parent has put together a packet of information about starting and maintaining support groups. There are suggestions about the many places to ask about groups in your area. We can help you contact other parents in your area to either help with the organizational details, or just to come to a first meeting. Parent to Parent will always do a first mailing to everyone on our mailing list who lives in your area. If you are a parent and are thinking about starting a support group, we have a small amount of money for which you can apply. Just call (1-800-800-4005) and ask for a support group packet that contains an application form.

If you would like to speak with other parents who have started support groups, we could connect you with someone. They would be able to tell you firsthand why they feel their groups have been successful and they could share some of the challenges. (Now there's a thought - finding support around starting a support group!!)

If you know of groups in your area that are open to new members, give us a call and let us know about them. We will put them on our list of support groups and on our website. Maybe the next time we get a call asking: "Is there a support group in my area?" we can check our lists and reply: "Well, yes, it just so happens that there is a group about...." ©

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