Hosting a Support Group
It is easy to start a support group in your area. We'll help you get started, and give you the information and support you need.
One of the greatest needs and services is just being with others who listen and understand.
|
| Meeting Coordinator |
The meeting coordinator commits to finding the meeting space and hosting the event. Multiple people can share the duties of meeting coordinator. |
| Type of Meeting |
The type of group is up to you and your interests: mixed adults, men's group, teen networking, for parents about teens, for parents about children, for children, women's support, etc. |
| Location |
A church, clubhouse, school, restaurant, community center or other public location. The chapter does not have funds to pay for space. Many places offer free space to non-profit groups. Location can rotate among several places, such as to different community rec centers. |
| Schedule |
The schedule is up to you. It can be a one-time event, repeat monthly or be scheduled as-needed. |
| Publicity |
We'll publicize your event on the web Calendar, to the OnLine Support Group and to the membership (via email). |
| Requirements |
Requirements are few, but important. You must display a disclaimer from CHADD (we'll supply it). You must learn CHADD's basic philosophy about AD/HD and about hosting meetings (see below). |
| Speakers/Guests |
Speakers are welcomed, but to inform and educate only. Speakers may discuss their areas of expertise, trends, and general aspects of their fields, but should not promote their individual commercial interests and businesses in their presentation. They can display handouts and cards. |
| Your Opinions |
As a meeting host, you do not represent or speak for CHADD. You can express any opinion or statement as an individual, but you must be clear that it is a personal statement and not a position of CHADD. |
| Promotions |
Meetings may not be used to promote the commercial interests of you or anyone else. While speakers cannot promote their services in their presentations, they can display business cards and materials (eg, on a table) that attendees can pick up if they choose. |
| Medicine Rx |
CHADD does not advocate for or against the use of medication in the treatment of AD/HD. CHADD supports a multi-modal approach which means using a variety of treatment methods based on the needs of the person, the advice of health professionals and fact-based research & procedures. A multi-modal approach may or may not include medication, behavioral modification, counselling & other strategies. |
| Materials |
If possible, we will share handouts, magazines & other materials with you. |
| Refreshments |
Not required or necessary. Suggestions if you would like to include refreshments: Others can bring a drink/snack for themselves. If you provide ice/cups, suggest others bring drinks to share (soda, juice, tea, etc). You can provide coffee, water, tea, etc, and ask that others bring a snack to share. Whatever you do, have the group participate in and share the burden. |
