Support Groups
Support groups are designed to provide information and support relevant to a person’s individual needs and circumstances. With plenty of options to choose from, you’re certain to find a support group that catches your interest!
Visit our Events Calendar to find out when our Support Groups meet!
Autism Support Group
The Autism Support Group discusses the experience of living with all forms of Autism. Join this group and learn new things about the world around you!
ARISE Social Club
Members of the ARISE Social Club are adults with all types of disabilities. This group gives you the opportunity to socialize, gain support, discuss disability-related issues, and share your achievements with others.
Central Square Social Group
This group meets each month at the Central Square Universalist Church. The Social Group has been formed to provide fun activities and social opportunities for teenagers who have any type of disability. All youth between the ages of 13-25 are invited to come for some fun and socializing. The Church is wheel-chair accessible.
Hearing Loss Support Group
This is a support group for individuals with hearing loss. It is a place to meet others, share experiences, and learn about new technologies and medical advances. At each monthly meeting, a guest speaker visits to talk about a topic related to hearing loss. Following the presentation, there is a time for participants to socialize and mingle. The public is invited. Refreshments are served.
Parent Support Groups
Parent support groups give parents information and support that helps them better meet the needs of their children with disabilities. Two parent support groups currently meet:
- Mexico Parent Support Group
- Spectrum (Central Square)
Please contact us if you’re interested in starting a parent support group in your area!
Sibshops
Sibshops are free, and are for 3rd through 8th grader brothers and sisters of children who have special needs. A collaborative effort of ARISE and Parents of Special Children, Sibshops are a lively mixture of new games, discussions, and guest speakers. Participants should dress comfortably and be ready for action! At a Sibshop, participants will:
- Meet other brothers and sisters of children with special needs
- Have fun
- Talk with others who really know what it’s like to have a sibling with a disability.
- Make new friends
- Learn more about disabilities
- Have some more fun!
We want all who register for Sibshops to attend all sessions! Welcome … and have fun!
Spectrum Support Group
SPECTRUM Parents Support group is for parents who have children with disabilities. The group offers support and education about various aspects concerning children with disabilities. SPECTRUM meetings are open to all parents. There will be a short presentation and a time for everyone to share their concerns and ideas. The meeting will focus on the need for parents to document requests for services through their school. The teenage children of the attending parents are encouraged to come and join the new Social Club.
Spinal Cord Injury Network
The Spinal Cord Injury Network provides support for people with a spinal cord injury or disorder of the spine. As a member of the network, you’ll get practical tips and information on living with a disability, along with the opportunity to participate in social and recreational outings.
Teen Group
The Teen Group focuses on providing support and encouragement for teens with developmental disabilities. This group offers you peer support, the chance to discuss disability-related issues, and plenty of fun socialization!
Women on the Move
Women on the Move is a group of women with disabilities who meet to network, socialize, support one another, and attend outings. This engaging group can’t help but expand your horizons!