Self-help group refers to two or more people that come together to deal with a common problem. These groups are all over the world and often called support groups. Groups are often run by and for the members, “experts” themselves. The strength in joining together in a group can help a person stabilize their situation and gain the energy needed to see to their current needs. Joining in a group can help gain a sense of well-being, lead to self-awareness and give a sense of belonging.
The purpose of these groups is to create a community of grandfamilies and the children in their care to stay connected and involved with other grandfamilies in the area. To provide support and understanding of grandfamilies in need.
PEER SUPPORT GROUPS
You alone can do this, but you don’t have to do it alone!
Sometimes we simply need to know someone is there, not to fix anything or do anything in particular, but just to feel supported and cared about. We’ve created a place to be social and uplifting with social/support groups. We have monthly topics that encourage positive thinking and ways to care for ourselves. We offer speakers to keep us informed with topics that concern our needs. Social connection is essential for selfcare, emotional support and positive wellbeing.
- Fort Collins “HUGS” Group –New Location coming soon
- Kinship Family Night – First Wednesday of the month 5:30 – 7:30 Realities for Children complex, 308 E CR 30, Fort Collins
- Peer Breakfast Group – Second Friday of the month 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM (local restaurants)
- Peer Coffee Chat Online – Third Thursday of the month online 10:00 AM to 11:3o AM
- For more detail please contact us at [email protected]
- Child Care is available for Family Night and HUGS groups – RSVP Required
PEER-TO-PEER SUPPORT NETWORK:
Seasoned grandparents lead our Peer-to-Peer Support Network. Grandparents and kin who have taken on the financial and legal responsibility of their grandchildren or kin often find themselves struggling to connect with others. Often unable to navigate a system of care to find resources. We help them connect to the resources they need to stabilize their families. If you know someone who needs our help please contact us for a referral form so we can reach out to them.
[email protected] or Gail Engel at [email protected]
Peer-to-Peer Support Team
Gail, Debbie, Laura, Tina, Kelly, Maria, and Jill
EDUCATION CLASSES:
GFC brings in speakers and professionals that offer classes and presentations that bring information that helps kinship caregivers on their journey of raising the children they never expected to raise.
- Rocky Mountain Children’s Law – Differences between Guardianship and Custody
- Individual Education Plans – Understand the ins and outs of an IEP and 504 plans for your Chil’s education needs.
- Speak Now – How to talk to your kids about drugs
- Our HUGs Peer Groups offer speakers on topics such as Social Security, Internet Safety, AARP, Medicaid and more.
- Other classes are offered as they become available.
Youth Group:
The youth of our organization are just as important to support as the adults caring for them. We are here to support them into adulthood in the most positive way possible. By creating a place where they can connect and be creative, we are promoting positive behavior and inspiring leadership. By giving them a sense of belonging they can achieve great things They become the pulse of our organization. When our pulse is strong, we know we are accomplishing our goals.
- Minor Pulse “Teen Night” meets monthly for youth ages 12 – 18.
- Minor Pulse organizes the activities for our social events.
Facebook Private Groups
Grandfamilies and Kin caregivers from across the state of Colorado connect to share ideas, stories and get advice from those who have experienced similar situations. Being able to connect with others with similar interests, ages, and experiences help bridge the gap for support. The group is monitored and those with extensive knowledge are there to support you. To join our private Facebook group email us at [email protected]. You can also “like” our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/grandfamilycoalition which offers public announcements and educational content.
