What is an OI Foundation Support Network Group?
These are community based groups of people who are affected by OI. They gather periodically to enjoy each other’s company, share information and encourage each other. Groups vary in size. They meet as frequently as the group wishes to, but are asked to meet at least twice a year. Each group has a leader or a team of co-leaders.
What does a Support Network Group leader do?
- Get the group organized
- Plan and make arrangements for the gatherings
- Develop a local contact list
- Keep in touch with the OI Foundation
- Agree to have their name and email posted on the OI Foundation website
How can I start a new group?
Contact Marie Maffey, Information & Resource Specialist at the OI Foundation Office by email Bonelink@oif.org. She will send you the Support Network Leader Kit.
You will be asked to:
- Identify the geographic area that your group would serve
- Write a letter introducing yourself to potential group members
- Locate a meeting place that is free of charge and accessible to all
Is help available from the OI Foundation?
The Foundation will support you at every step!
- The Support Network Group Leader Kit provides detailed information on starting and keeping a group going.
- The OI Foundation will send an e-survey on your behalf to alert people in your area that a group is forming.
- Send email announcements for all meetings
- Put you in touch with other group leaders
- Provide you with information about OI
- Provide training as part of each National Conference
- Provide insurance for all meetings listed on the online calendar
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