How Do I Set Up a Support Group?

A support group is a collective with common goals or emotional burdens. The purpose of a support group is to offer members the opportunity to make contact with others who can offer emotional support. Support can come in the form of conversation and sharing experiences, or by simply listening to others. In some cases, support groups may take an active part in lobbying for changes in laws or educating the public about social conditions. If you find yourself in need of the support of those who can empathize with you but can't find a support group, you might want to start your own.

Things You'll Need

• Meeting location
• Fliers
• Funding

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Instructions

• 1

  Find a location where you will be able to hold your support group meetings. You may choose to hold meetings in your home at first, then move to a larger location as your support group grows. The library or your church are places you may consider using as you add members to your group.

• 2

  Outline your support group's goals and strategies. Determine what your support group will give to the community and where funding will come from. A support group can operate on small donations, but the more funds available, the more your support group will be able to offer services to the community, such as public speaking engagements at schools and churches or volunteering at shelters. Fund-raising events, such as talent shows and craft fairs, are effective ways to raise money to get you started.

• 3

  Create fliers to advertise your support group. Hang these flyers around town, at the supermarket, laundry facilities, at the library and anywhere else where they will be noticed by a large group of people. Fliers are one of the most efficient ways to attract group members.

• 4

  Speak about your support group at churches and anywhere you can find an audience that may include people who would benefit from your support group. If your support group is for people who have come out of abusive relationships, volunteer to speak at shelters where victims of abuse might reside.

• 5

  Encourage members of your support group to bring others into the fold. Networking and word of mouth is one of the best ways to turn a small support group into a larger support group.