Self-Help Groups
What is Self-Help?
A self-help group is a voluntary gathering of people who share a common problem, condition, or history. By coming together, members share support and ideas on how to cope and live more productive and fulfilling lives. Groups are usually free of charge, on-going, and open to new members.Self-help or mutual assistance groups are playing an increasingly important role in the health care system. They complement traditional services by effectively helping people deal with problems, stress, hardship, pain, and personal development. In self-help groups, people take responsibility for each other and themselves. They find that participting with others dealing with similar issues is non-stigmatizing and effective.
News Updates
Twelfth Edition of Support Group Directory Available
The print edition of the revised support group directory can be picked up at Family Service, 405 S. State St. in Champaign between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday. There is no charge for the directory if it is picked up at Family Service. If mailed, there is a $2/book shipping charge prepaid to Family Service Self-Help Center with a notation support group directory and the quantity requested. The directory is also accessible on this web site per topic; the online directory is updated on a regular basis whereas the print copy is revised every other year.
2008 Mowrer Award Recipients
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Outstanding New Group:
- Parents of Adults with Disabilities
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Outstanding Established Groups:
- Champaign County Operation Snowball (CCOS)
- Visually Impaired Persons Inspiring Others (VIPIO)
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Outstanding Lay Facilitators:
- Janet Martin – Caring Hearts
- Sten Johansen – Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance Urbana Champaign (DBSA UC)
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Outstanding Lay/Professional Leader:
- Zelig Bartell, Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, The Mental Health Center Crisis Line and the Pavilion
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Outstanding Professional Leader:
- Liz Acevedo-Alstrum – Latina Women’s Support Group
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