Peer Support Groups

Hey guys, I wanted to pass on the following because I think it is of local interest. I had a conversation last night, and have had other conversations that remind me of the importance of such groups. DC has very high rates of HIV and other STI [STD] infection rates. It's vital that we confront these issues, as well as provide various types of support to those who need it. I also wanted to pass this on because I know that there is a significant group of GLBT [and straight] youth in our communities who may not have adequate parental support [some are very visible in Trinidad]. A good resource for GLBT youth are the groups below, or SMYAL [they may also want to check out The New Gay]. The conversation that I had last night did not specifically focus on GLBT youth, but all local youth. I've always been a big advocate of better sex education, so this is an offshoot of that. The sender works for Whitman Walker. Few of you will be surprised [based on published numbers for infection rates] to hear that Whitman Walker now services large numbers of hetero African Americans. The fastest growing rate of infection for HIV is straight Black females. Food for thought. Here's what I received-

This is the first time I have used the neighborhood lists to let people know about the groups we offer; and if you are a moderator or list member that feels this is off-topic, don't worry I won't make a habit of it. It's just that, as I sat here reading through my emails I thought that there might be people who could benefit from one of the groups below that may not know how to find them. Plus some of the groups are new- like the separation support group... we have offered it for queer women before but not for everyone else. These groups are free, most (but not all) take place at the clinic office at 14th and R, and I think they add a great (needed) value to the community.

Enjoy this crazy weather,

Dawn

We have some exciting new peer support groups to tell you about, and we hope you will pass along the information to family, friends and colleagues. All the below groups are Peer Facilitated Support Groups. Some we have had for a while, and some are new. There are groups below for everyone- gay, straight, bi, trans. Please pass them along!

Coming Out for Women

This 10-week discussion group starting in February is for women exploring their interest in other women. “Coming out” is not required but registration is. Please contact Dawn Boutelle at 202-797-3580 or dboutelle@wwc.org to register.

Coming Out for Men

This eight-week discussion group starting in April is for men exploring their interest in other men. “Coming out” is not required but registration is. Please contact Dawn Boutelle at 202-797-3580 or dboutelle@wwc.org to register.

Coming Out for Married Women

This ongoing discussion group is for married or divorced women, exploring their interest in other women. “Coming out” is not required but registration is. Please contact Dawn Boutelle at 202-797-3580 or dboutelle@wwc.org to register.

Coming Out GI

This BRAND NEW (Trans) Gender Identity Discussion Group is for persons exploring/questioning their own gender identity. Join us for support, and to share struggles and celebrations as it relates to your journey of gender discovery. This group is looking to start in April. Please contact Dawn Boutelle at 202-797-3580 or dboutelle@wwc.org to register.

Coming Out for Family & Friends of LBGT People

This eight-week discussion group is for people who have had someone close to them come out. The focus of this group is on healing bonds while still allowing a safe space to voice concerns. Please contact Dawn Boutelle at 202-797-3580 or dboutelle@wwc.org to register.

Separation Support for All People regardless of Gender Identity & Sexual Identity

This eight-week discussion group, starting the beginning of April, is for people whose long-term relationship has ended. The focus of this group is on healing and moving forward. Registration is required. Please contact Dawn Boutelle at 202-797-3580 or dboutelle@wwc.org to register.

HIV+ for Newly Diagnosed

This ongoing discussion group is for anyone newly diagnosed seeking a safe place to talk with others who are newly diagnosed. Please contact 202-939-7671 or dboutelle@wwc.org to register.

HIV+ for Longer Diagnosed

This ongoing discussion group is for anyone that has been diagnosed for a while and is seeking a safe place to talk with others. Please contact 202-939-7671 or dboutelle@wwc.org to register.

HIV+ for Women

This ongoing discussion group is for women who are positive and are seeking a safe place to talk with other positive women. Please contact 202-939-7671 or dboutelle@wwc.org to register.

Didn’t see a group that interests you? We have others! Check out http://www.wwc.org/common/support_groups.html. There you will find a list of all our groups. Have a suggestion for a group for LGBT individuals? E-mail Dawn (dboutelle@wwc.org) with what you would like to see!