Our support group is looking for ideas to attract more attendees to our monthly meetings. The meetings are held from Sept-May for 1 1/2 hrs. Individuals are given the opportunity to meet in an informal atmosphere with open discussions. On occasion, speakers are invited to our meetings to inform us about topics related to UC or Crohns.
What creative ideas do you have to attract and keep people coming to support group meetings?
Any suggestions on places to advertise your support group?
We have advertised our support group in local newspapers, hospital/clinics, and word of mouth. I have a connection with a GI doctor who promotes the support group to his colleagues and provides us with occassional speakers. He hangs posters in each doctors office and we have information in the waiting room area.
I have a list of appx. 50 people on our member list, but we typically get 3-7 people at the meetings each month. I tried a survey to find out what we could do to make our meetings better, but only received 3 responses back. Not sure if peoples schedules are just too busy or if the readily availabile information from CCFA and websites that people are getting less interested in support groups. Why do you think people do or don't attend support groups?
Your ideas and suggestions are greatly appreciated.
Reply posted for mary2.
The local hospital allows us to utilize their conference room free of charge.
Reply posted for mlbraun3.
where do you meet or do you just chat on line?
Reply posted for ngc249.
The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America has a list of support groups at http://www.ccfa.org/chapters/?LMI=7
Otherwise check out hospitals/clinics especially in the digestive specialty areas or in local newspapers.
Another option would be to start one in your area.
Reply posted for mlbraun3.
I am very interested in joining a support group for chrons and ulcerative colitis. I have no idea how to go about finding one. I live in Massachusetts. Any suggestions on how to find one?
ngc
Reply posted for mlbraun3.
See if your local GI dr's will keep a leaflet or info on your group in their office so they can refer patients. Also alot of newspapers will have community news sections- you might be able to add a small notice there.
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