Steps for Setting Up a Support Group

There are support groups for almost every disorder, circumstance or event. However, depending on the size of your region, you may not have access to these support groups. Perhaps you are dealing with something that is not necessarily the most common issue or maybe there just isn’t the support available in your area. Whatever the reason is, setting up a support group can take time, effort and money. However, the payoff can be priceless.

What Is Out There?

• Do your research. Check your area, and see if there is a support group that exists already. If not, are there support groups that exist but are too far away for you to benefit from them? Is there a national organization for the issue of concern for which you want to set up a support group? It would surprise you what is out there and how much support you can receive when setting up your support group, especially if the group already exists, just not in your area.

Is There a Need?

• Perhaps you are looking to set up a support group for people who are suffering from Disease X. How many people in your area are affected by Disease X? Is Disease X something that is rare, and can the number of cases in the state be counted on one hand? If this is the case, you may find that local support is not something that is feasible. Don’t let this stop you, however, as you may be able to join an online support group. If you are starting a support group for something that is common, and for whatever reason it just hasn’t come to your community yet, chances are there will be a need. Ask professionals in the area you are looking to help, and find out if there is indeed a need. Hold an open meeting for the public and see what kind of support you can get. Chances are you will be able to create a team to help you with the remainder of the steps.

Starting Out

• If you have determined there is a need for this type of support group, now is the time to create the rules and purpose of the group. If you are starting a support group that falls under the umbrella of a national organization, chances are it will provide this information for you. If not, then you need to create this yourself. Through your research that you have already completed to determine the need, you will have a good idea of what you are looking to accomplish. Make sure that everyone you are working with is on the same page and they understand. Check with legal counsel to find out what you need to do in your area to make your group legal. Set up rules and regulations. This area can be tricky, so make sure you have a lawyer help with this step. You have to keep several factors in mind. If there are children, you will have to make sure steps are in place that only people who pass background checks will be able to have access to the group. This is the stage where roles, such as chairperson, should be filled and bank accounts set up for the support group.

Funding

• Unfortunately, there will be costs associated with running a support group, such as advertising, space rental for the meetings and other administrative costs. Fundraising is crucial to ensure the success of any nonprofit group. Talk to national foundations for the particular support group you are setting up. Find out if any local clubs have community program support. Some businesses may also be appropriate, but make sure you are choosing wisely. Running a public fundraiser can be effective twofold. First, you will be able to raise funds, and second, you will be making the community aware of your program.

Keeping It Going

• By keeping the community aware and through organization and volunteers, your support group will be able to thrive. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it, and remember that if you have a need for this type of support group, chances are someone else does as well.