Peer Support Groups Offer Friendships, Resources, Life Skills and More
Nothing can make us feel more safe than human relationships. It’s healing and empowering to connect with others that are having the same experiences and enduring the same challenges as we are. For those reasons and more, support and social groups exist all over the world on every topic from spinal cord injuries to rock collecting.
For people with disabilities, peer support groups can be a great way to network with your local disability community, get resources and even learn helpful life skills. We all know that there can be a lot to navigate, but you don’t have to do it alone. Finding a group of people who have “rolled a mile in your shoes” can make all the difference.
Many people are able to find friends and mentors that share common experiences and challenge through peer support groups.
Check out this list below of disability-related support groups across the U.S. that we thought would be beneficial for the Cure Nation.
Organized by state, this list contains peer support groups for people who have cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, spina bifida, spinal cord injury and other conditions that may impact people who use Cure Medical products. This is not a comprehensive list but it will be updated on a regular basis.
Alabama
SBA of Alabama, Inc.
Location: Birmingham, Al 35202
Phone: 256-617-1414 Email: support@sbaofal.org
Alaska
Alaska Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Street Address: 3801 Lake Otis Pkwy, Suite 100
City/State/Zip: Anchorage, AK 99508
Contact: Valerie Maeker or Jacob Johnson
Phone: 406-396-8341 (Valerie) or 907-317-8399 (Jacob)
Email: j_michael_johnson@hotmail.com
Full Details: Meets 1st Wednesday of every month @ 6:00 PM.
Arizona
East Valley Support Group (COMPASS)
Location: Granite Reef Senior Center
Street Address: 1700 N Granite Reef Rd
City/State/Zip: Scottsdale, AZ 85257
Contact: Pauline Staples
Phone: 602-241-1006 Email: plstaples@msn.com
Details: SCI support group for people in Scottsdale, AZ. Every 3rd Friday of the month 2:00pm-4:30pm.
Flagstaff Support Group
Location: Northern AZ Health Care training facility in the Fort Valley Shopping Center
City/State/Zip: Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Contact: Al White
Phone: (928) 527-8567 Email: bosco8567@msn.com
Details: Meets in the Northern AZ Healthcare training center in the Fort Valley Shopping center just south of the Flagstaff Medical Center and north of Columbus and Fort Vally rd. intersection. It is next to the Hot Wok restaurant. Every 1st Tuesday of the month 2:00–3:30 PM.
Grupo de apoyo en Español
Location: Gentiva Rehab Without Walls
Street Address: 7227 N 16th St #107
City/State/Zip: Phoenix, AZ 85020
Contact: Diane Hendrix
Phone: 480-390-5240
Full Details: El grupo de apoyo en Español para personas que tienen trauma cerebral y lesion a la columna. Este grupo hace actividades de diversión y actividades educacionales. Cuando: Cada segundo sabado del mes! Por favor llamar si usted quiere atender.
Men’s Disability Discussion Group
Street Address: 5025 E. Washington St.
City/State/Zip: Phoenix, AZ 85034
Contact: Don Price
Phone: 602-980-3232 Email: donp@abil.org
Details: Meets the 3rd Thursday of every month from 5:30–7:00 pm.
Prescott Support Group
Street Address: 3700 N. Windsong Dr.
City/State/Zip: Prescott Valley, AZ 86314
Contact: Jo Crawford
Phone: 928-759-8800 Email: Jo.Crawford@chw.edu
Details: Meets 1st Thursday of every month at 6:00 PM.
SBA of Arizona
Street Address: 1001 East Fairmount Avenue
City/State/Zip: Phoenix, AZ 85014
Phone: 602-274-3323 Email: office@sbaaz.org
SCI Women Support Group
Location: DEC-Disability Empowerment Center
Street Address: 5025 E. Washington St. STE#110
City/State/Zip: Phoenix, AZ 85034-7437
Contact: Donna Powers
Phone: 602-507-4209 Email: twocats345@msn.com
Details: Meets every 3rd Wednesday of the month, 5:30-7:00 pm.
Arkansas
Faulkner County Support Group
Location: Conway Regional Rehabilitation Hospital
Street Address: 2210 Robinson Avenue
City/State/Zip: Conway, Arkansas 72034
Contact: Doug Fish
Phone: (501) 296-1792 Email: douglas.fish@arkansas.gov
Details: Support for SCI patients, their families and caregivers. Guest speakers, resource and service information, and equipment provider demonstrations. First Thursday of every month at 1:00pm.
California
Berkeley Spinal Cord Injury Peer Support Group
Location: Ed Robert’s Campus, Room 225, Koret Foundation Boardroom
Street Address: 3075 Adeline Street
City/State/Zip: Berkeley, CA 94703
Phone: (415) 205-3882 Email: scipeersupport@gmail.com
Details: Meets the 2nd Thursday of each month, 6:30pm to 8:30pm. The purpose is to assist those with SCI including their friends, family, and attendants. This group is for the newly-injured and those who have been living with SCI for years. They offer regular presenters covering a variety of SCI topics. This group is free and open to the public. No reservations are required.
Challenged Women’s Support Group
Location: Sharp Memorial Rehabilitation Center, Conference Room (#21)
Street Address: 2999 Health Center Drive
City/State/Zip: San Diego, CA 92123
Phone: 858-939-3153 Email: jennifer.burdeaux@sharp.com
Details: The Challenged Women’s Support Group gathers to share thoughts and feelings about current life challenges, victories, and visions. It is a great opportunity to offer support to one another in a safe environment. The group also holds social events and educational meetings. This group is for women only and is facilitated by Sharp Rehab social workers. The Challenged Women’s Support Group meets the first Tuesday of each month at Sharp Memorial Rehabilitation Center’s Conference Room (#21). Meeting times are from 12:30-1:30pm and socializing follows from 1:30-2:00pm. Snacks and beverages are provided. In addition to the support group meetings, we regularly have social events in the community. Call or email to be added to the email list.
C.O.R.E Centers-Life Series Mixer
Location: Center of Restorative Exercise (C.O.R.E)
Street Address: 9667 Reseda Blvd.
City/State/Zip: Northridge, CA 91324
Contact: Andrew Skinner
Phone: 661-803-3700 Email: andrew@triumph-foundation.org
Details: Support group meets the last Tuesday of every month at 7:00 PM.
Free Wheelers-Spinal Cord Injury Club
Street Address: 303 East Vanderbilt Way
City/State/Zip: San Bernardino, CA 92408
Contact: Dennis
Phone: 909-890-3438 Email: kaney-d@iehp.org
Details: Meets the 1st Monday of every month from 5:00-7:00 P.M.
Head Injury & Trauma Spinal Support Group (HITSS)
Street Address: 11406 Loma Linda Drive, Room 129A
City/State/Zip: Loma Linda, CA, 92354
Contact: Cotie Williams
Phone: (909) 558-6384 Email: cowilliams@llu.edu
Details: Adult & pediatrics group meeting open to any survivors and/or family members. Meets the 4th Monday of every month from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. For more information call 800) 986-HITSS or (800) 986-4487. PossAbilities is a FREE community outreach program developed by the Loma Linda University Medical Center East Campus (LLUMCEC). Its goal is to offer disabled individuals who were born with or have suffered a permanent physical injury a sense of community and provide activities and practical help to integrate them back into life-once again giving them opportunity for becoming valuable members of our communities. This free membership program is tailored to persons with physical disabilities such as limb amputation, stroke, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, spina bifida and others.
HeadNorth Peer Mentoring Program
Street Address: 5333 Mission Center Rd, Suite 115
City/State/Zip: San Diego, CA 92108
Contact: Renee White
Phone: 619-814-1235 Email: renee@headnorth.org
Details: Has a dedicated peer mentoring program specifically for individuals who have just sustained an injury (within 60 days). Mentors are all volunteers, we train them, do back ground checks, and manage all of the matching of peers to mentees to ensure a good support system.
Leon S. Peter’s Rehabilitation Center Support Group
Location: Leon S. Peter’s Rehabilitation Center
City/State/Zip: Fresno, CA 93715
Contact: Allen Roope
Phone: 559-877-3559 Email: prowheeler@netptc.net
Details: Allen Roope, a spinal cord injury survivor and Peer Educator at the Leon S. Peters Rehabilitation Center, leads the monthly Spinal Cord Injury Support Group. Meets the 3rd Wednesday of every other month. Call for more information.
Long Beach Memorial Hospital SCI Support Group
Location: MemorialCare Rehabilitation Institute Dinning Room-Memorial West
Street Address: 2801 Atlantic Ave
City/State/Zip: Long Beach, CA 90806
Contact: Angelique
Phone: 562-933-9034 Email: andrew@triumph-foundation.org
Details: Celebrate successes and share resources. Group is lead by a rehabilitation social worker. To register, call (562) 933-9034 one week prior to the meeting. Meets the 2nd Monday of every month, 5:00-6:30 PM.
Men’s Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Location: Sharp Memorial Rehab Community Re-Entry Classroom (Conference Room #3).
Street Address: 7915 Frost St.
City/State/Zip: San Diego, CA, 92123
Contact: Richard Green, MSW
Phone: (858) 939-3156 Email: richard.green@sharp.com
Details: Richard Green, MSW, Lead Social Worker for Sharp Rehabilitation Center, coordinates a support group for men with SCI. Meets the 3rd Monday of each month from 5:30-7:00pm.
Napa Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Location: Queen of the Valley Medical Center, Community Outreach Department
Street Address: 3448 Villa Lane, Suite 102
City/State/Zip: Napa, CA 94558
Contact: Ryan Voss
Phone: 707-227-6542
Email: ryanleevoss@gmail.com
Details: Meets last Friday of every month at 1:00 pm. Group does not usually meet in November and December due to holidays, but do have a dinner/social gathering.
Oxnard SCI Life Series Group
Location: Toppers Pizza Place
Street Address: 111 W Gonzales Road
City/State/Zip: Oxnard, CA 93036
Contact: Andrew Skinner
Phone: 661-803-3700 Email: andrew@triumph-foundation.org
Details: Meets once a month on the last Tuesday.
Placerville Mobility Support Group
Street Address: 512 Main St.
City/State/Zip: Placerville, CA 95667
Contact: Lynn Murray
Phone: 530-295-7260 Email: lynnmurray2684@att.net
Details: Meetings are open to all persons with a mobility disability, friends, families, caregivers and general public. There are no membership fees, no donations requested, no expectation other than participating with us in discussions ranging from everyday issues to personal relations to personal care. Meets 4th Monday of each month at 6:30 pm.
SBA of California
Street Address: 3250 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 500
City/State/Zip: Los Angeles, CA 90010
Phone: 310-359-9611 Email: mnethercutt@sbaa.org
Spina Bifida Association of the Intermountain Region [WEST]
Phone: 202-618-4752 Email: mnethercutt@sbaa.org
SCI Connections
Location: Santa Clara Valley Medical Center Camden Community Center, Room #120
Street Address: 3369 Union Avenue
City/State/Zip: San Jose, CA 95124
Contact: Robert Medel
Phone: 408 885-2397 Email: robert.medel@hhs.sccgov.org
Details: Meets the 3rd Thursday of each month from 6:30-8:30 pm. Family/caregivers are also welcome. Always has a speaker to address topic of interest and dinner is served.
SCI Life Enrichment Group
Location: St. Jude Medical Center- Outpatient Center for Rehab and Wellness
Street Address: 2767 E. Imperial Highway
City/State/Zip: Brea, CA 92821
Contact: Andrew Skinner
Phone: 661-803-3700 Email: andrew@triumph-foundation.org
Details: Free of charge. Contact for details.
SCI Support Group
Location: UCDMC (UC Davis), Ambulatory Care Center, Rm. 3030C
Street Address: 4860 Y St.,
City/State/Zip: Sacramento, CA, 95817
Contact: Kevin Wheeler
Phone: (916) 734-3467 Email: kevin.wheeler@ucdmc.ucdavis.edu
Details: Meets every Wednesday, 3:00-4:30 PM. Includes peer support, guest speakers, educational topics, community resources. Free child care upon request. Call 734-5522 for reservations.
SCI Support Network in Northern Central Valley
Street Address: PO Box 720327
City/State/Zip: Redding, CA 96001
Contact: Joy Wade, RNFNP and Physicians Assistant
Phone: 530-241-1007
Details: Willing to discuss SCI related issues and local resources.
Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Street Address: 7601 East Imperial Hwy
City/State/Zip: Downey, CA 90242
Contact: Amy McKnight
Phone: 562-401-6847 Email: andrew@triumph-foundation.org
Details: Peer counselors and licensed psychologist provide support for persons with SCI. Meets every Tuesday at 12:00-1:00 pm.
Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Street Address: 255 East Bonita Ave
City/State/Zip: Pomona, CA 91767
Contact: Andrew Skinner
Phone: (661) 803-3700 Email: Andrew@triumph-foundation.org
Details: SCI Support Group meets every Friday at 11:00 A.M.
Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Street Address: 18300 Roscoe Blvd
City/State/Zip: Northridge, CA, 91328
Contact: Laura Weiss, M.S., O.T.R./L
Phone: (818) 885-8500 Ext. 3656 Email: Laura.Weiss@DignityHealth.org
Details: Meets Thursdays from 3-4:15 p.m. Please call first to assure space in the group.
Colorado
SBA of Colorado
Location: Denver, CO 80222
Phone: 303-797-7870 Email: lbirney@spinabifidaco.org
Connecticut
Gaylord Hospital SCI Support Group
Location: Gaylord Hospital (Roncari Hall)
Street Address: Gaylord Farm Road
City/State/Zip: Wallingford, CT, 06492
Contact: Erin Prastine Co-coordinator: Meghan Chiaraluce
Phone: (203) 284-2875 Email: eprastine@gaylord.org
Details: Support group for individuals with SCI. Meets 2nd Monday of each month, 5-7 p.m.
Round Table SCI Support Group
Location: Hospital for Special Care
Street Address: 2150 Corbin Avenue
City/State/Zip: New Britain, CT 06053
Contact: Timothy Belliveau, PhD, ABPP
Phone: 860-827-1958 Email: tbelliveau@hfsc.org
Details: Meets the 3rd Tuesday of every month, from 3:30–5:00 pm.
SBA of Connecticut
Street Address: 370 Osgood Avenue, Suite 106
City/State/Zip: New Britain, CT 06053-2744
Phone: 860-839-0115 Email: sbac@sbac.org
Spinal Cord Injury Information Group
Location: Mount Sinai Rehabilitation Hospital in Hartford, CT
Street Address: 490 Blue Hills Ave
City/State/Zip: Hartford, CT 06112
Contact: Paige McCullough-Casciano
Phone: 860-714-2421 Email: pmccullo@stfranciscare.org
Details: Meets the 3rd Wednesday of every month, 4:30–6:30 pm.
Florida
Broward Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Street Address: 4399 Nob Hill Road
City/State/Zip: Sunrise, Florida, 33351
Contact: Ryan Gebauer
Phone: 954-696-7204 Email: contact.scisg@gmail.com
Full Details: Group meets 1st Tuesday of each month; 5:00pm to 7:00pm in the cafeteria
Brooks Spinal Cord Support Group/Stroke Support Group
Location: Brooks Rehabilitation Hospital, 1st Floor Gym
Street Address: 3599 University Blvd. South
City/State/Zip: Jacksonville, Florida 32216
Contact: Kristen Ellison, Clinical Psychologist, SCI Program
Phone: (904) 345-7238 Email: kristen.ellison@brooksrehab.org
Details: This support group provides a unique opportunity for the patient to interact and form personal connections with people facing similar challenges. Not only can our patients be inspired by others, but they themselves are in a position to be inspiring. Meets the last Thursday of each month, 6:00-7:30PM
Endless Possibilities
Location: Therapeutic Recreation Complex
Street Address: 2728 Lake Worth Rd.
City/State/Zip: Lake Worth, FL 33461
Contact: Stacy Staebell
Phone: 561-966-7021 Email: EndlessPossibilitiesPBC@gmail.com
Details: EPFLA is a peer support group whose primary mission is to organize and lead sports and active recreational opportunities for individuals who use wheelchairs or other assistive equipment for mobility. This group wants to ensure that there are more opportunities for this population to be physically active in group settings and maintain and/or improve health. The group also provides peer support, raises money for specialized sports equipment, and promotes community awareness of disability. Meets the 3rd Tuesday of each month, 5:30-7:30pm.
Greater Orlando Spinal Cord Injury Network
Street Address: 100 West Gore Street, Ste 104
City/State/Zip: Orlando, FL 32806
Contact: Bob Melia
Phone: 407-900-6724 Email: contact@goscin.com
Details: The Greater Orlando SCI Network is a non-profit group for persons with SCI in the Orlando area. Their mission is to serve the needs of SCIs in employment, adaptive sports, recreation, social functions, networking, outreach, SCI prevention, and guest speakers for the group and the community. Meetings are held at different locations.
Sarasota SCI Group
Street Address: 6400 Edgelake Drive
City/State/Zip: Sarasota, FL, 34240
Contact: Anita Gerbig, Assistants: John Berkey 941-840-8586, Kenny Langford 941-266-5484
Phone: 941-921-8600 Email: anita.gerbig@healthsouth.com
Details: Meets every 3rd Thursday of each month at 6:00 pm in the dining room. Visit website for directions.
SBA of Central Florida
Street Address: 100 West Lucerne Circle, Suite 100-M
City/State/Zip: Orlando, FL 32801
Phone: 407-248-9210 Email: karen.allen@sbacentralflorida.org
Shands Jacksonville Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Location: Shands Jacksonville (Tower II, 1st floor Blue Room)
Street Address: 655 West Eigth Street
City/State/Zip: Jacksonville, FL 32209
Contact: Vitaliana Griffen
Phone: 904-244-4427 Email: Vitaliana.griffin@jax.ufl.edu
Details: Meets the 2nd Wednesday of each month from noon-1:00 pm.
Southwest Florida SCI Peer Support
City/State/Zip: Fort Myers, FL 33901
Contact: Tony Almeida
Phone: 239-834-0323 Email: A3Hyatt@aol.com
Details: Peer to peer support for individuals, friends and family members. Contact Tony for more information.
Spinal Cord Connections Support Group
Street Address: 3600 Washington St.
City/State/Zip: Hollywood, FL 33021
Contact: Victoria Leyland
Phone: 954-518-2111 Email: vleyland@mhs.net
Details: Meets every 3rd Wednesday of each month from 12:30pm-2:30pm in the 4th floor movie room.
Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Street Address: 2776 Cleveland Ave
City/State/Zip: Ft. Myers, Florida 33901
Contact: Kathy Wecher
Phone: 239-343-2561 Email: kathleen.wecher@leememorial.org
Details: Peer support group and informational meeting for people with a SCI. Group aims to become an Internet support group that will meet in person a few times a year and also over the Internet. Meets every 1st Tuesday of each month at 3:00 PM and every 3rd Sunday at 1:00 PM.
Spinal Cord Injury Outreach Network (SCION)
Street Address: 901 N Clearwater Largo Rd
City/State/Zip: Largo, FL 33770
Contact: Lee Hardin
Phone: 727-787-8243 Email: leehardin@verizon.net
Details: Meets the 3rd Thursday of each month at 6:00 pm. The group coordinates recreational outings, sports, and social gatherings in addition to their monthly meetings. Email rac@custom-mobility.com to be added to SCION’s email mailing list.
Spinal Cord Injury Resource and Support Group
Location: Tampa General Hospital Rehabilitation Center, 2nd Floor, Rehab Activity Room
Street Address: 6 Tampa General Circle
City/State/Zip: Tampa, FL 33606
Contact: Anthony Radano
Phone: (813) 844-4711 Email: aradano@fscirc.com
Details: This forum provides an opportunity for survivors and their families to learn about and discuss issues specific to SCI. Meets 2nd Wednesday of each month, 4:30-6:00 p.m. Refreshments provided.
Georgia
Hispanic Peer Support Group (SCI)
Location: Shepherd Center
Street Address: 2020 Peachtree Road NW
City/State/Zip: Atlanta, GA 30309
Contact: Pete Anziano
Phone: 404-350-3089 Email: pete_anziano@shepherd.org
Details: Hispanic SCIsupport group that meets on an as-needed. If interested in attending, contact Pete Anziano.
North Atlanta Support Group
Location: North River Baptist Church
Street Address: 12090 Hardscrabble Rd
City/State/Zip: Roswell, GA 30075
Contact: Belena Butler or Lynda DeMore
Phone: 404-835-7979 Email: info@NorthATLSupportGroup.org
Details: This group is open to all those with caring needs. They serve a community of caregivers and those they care for. They also have a community of peers living with spinal cord and brain injuries. Meets every 3rd Thursday of each month from 7:00-8:30 pm. Meeting focus rotates each month around educational speakers, learning activities and fellowship/sharing.
Rolling Together Atlanta
Street Address: 755 Commerce Drive #105
City/State/Zip: Decatur, GA 30030
Contact: Tony Davenport
Phone: 678-580-1404 Email: tdavenport@projectwalkatlanta.org
Details: Meets last Friday of the month from 12:30-2:30pm.
SBA of Georgia
Street Address: 5072 Bristol Industrial Way, Suite F
City/State/Zip: Buford, GA 30518
Phone: 770-939-1044 Fax: 770-939-1049
Email: info@spinabifidaga.org
SCI Support Group
Location: HealthSouth Sea Pines Rehab Hospital
Street Address: 101 E. Florida Ave
City/State/Zip: Melbourne, FL 32901
Contact: Laura Leitz MS, MPT
Phone: 2321-984-4600, ext 588 Email: laura.leitz@healthsouth.com
Details: Normally meets once a month on the 4th Wednesday of the month at 4:30pm.
Shepherd Center’s Spinal Cord Injury Peer Group
Location: Shepherd Center (Marcus Building, 2nd Floor Classroom)
Street Address: 2020 Peachtree Road, NW
City/State/Zip: Atlanta, GA 30309-1465
Contact: Minna Hong
Phone: 404-350-7373 Email: Minna_Hong@shepherd.org
Details: Meets the 4th Thursday of every month from 6-8:00 p.m., except NOV and DEC due to holidays (the dates are announced that month).
Spinal Cord Injury Caregivers Support Group
Location: Shepherd Center (Shepherd Building, 1st Floor Callaway Room)
Street Address: 2020 Peachtree Road, NW
City/State/Zip: Atlanta, GA 30309
Contact: Minna Hong
Phone: (404) 350-7373 Email: Minna_Hong@shepherd.org
Details: Meets the 4th Thursday of every month from 7–8:00 pm.
Spinal Cord Injury Group
Location: Central Georgia Rehabilitation Hospital, Cafeteria
Street Address: 3351 Northside Drive
City/State/Zip: Macon, GA 31210
Contact: Kathy Combs
Phone: 478-201-6500
Details: Meets the 1st Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m.
Spinal Cord Injury Group
Street Address: 3351 Northside Drive
City/State/Zip: Macon, GA 31210
Contact: Sara Tamboli
Phone: (478) 201-6500 Email: tamboli.sara@mccg.org
Details: Meets 1st Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m.
Hawaii
Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Street Address: 226 North Kuakini Street
City/State/Zip: Honolulu, HI, 96817
Contact: Catherine Church, Certified Recreational Therapist
Phone: (808) 531-3511 Ext. 3791 Email: CChurch@rehabhospital.org
Details: Meets the 1st Thursday of every month from 12:30-1:30 pm on the Lanai area, 1st Floor. Parking available on site. SCI survivors, caregivers, family and friends are all welcome. Refreshments will be served.
Idaho
Elks Rehab SCI Suppot Group
Location: Elks Rehab Hospital
Street Address: 600 North Robbins Road
City/State/Zip: Boise, Idaho 83702
Contact: Karen Gentilman, LMSW
Phone: 208-489-4961 Email: kgentilman@elksrehab.org
Details: Meets the 3rd Wednesday of every month at 2:00–4:00PM.
Illinois
Cross Disability Support Group
Location: The DuPage Center for Independent Living
Street Address: 739 Roosevelt Road, Bldg 8 Suite 109
City/State/Zip: Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Contact: Pat Byrne
Phone: 630-469-2300 Email: pat_dupagecil@sbcglobal.net
Details: Meets the 2nd Thursday of each month. CDSG meets for two separate sessions; 10 am and 11 am. Please call Pat prior to meeting for more information.
Heads Up (Brain Injury) Support Group
Location: Lake County Center For Independent Living
Street Address: 377 N. Seymour Avenue
City/State/Zip: Mundelein, IL 60060
Contact: Laura Mellon
Phone: 847-949-4440 Email: lauram@lccil.org
Details: Meets the 4th Tuesday of every month – except December, 7:00–8:30 p.m.
Lives in Motion
Location: Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital Wheaton Campus, 1st Floor Therapy Gym
Street Address: 26W171 Roosevelt Rd.
City/State/Zip: Wheaton, IL 60187
Contact: Monica Blaauw
Phone: 630.909.8444 Email: mblaauw@marianjoy.org
Details: Lives in Motion provides people with SCI an opportunity to learn and share experiences. Meetings include medical specialists from the SCI team who share expertise on specific topics such as home modifications, wheelchairs, exercises, nutrition, sexuality, social re-integration, and vocational rehabilitation. Meets 4th Tuesday of every month, 6:00-7:30 pm.
Multiple Sclerosis Support Group
Location: Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago
Street Address: 345 East Superior Street
City/State/Zip: Chicago, IL 60611
Contact: Reberta Winter
Phone: 312-238-5381 Email: rwinter@ric.org
Details: This group addresses the psychosocial aspects of multiple sclerosis in a structured outpatient setting. Education, recreation and peer support are offered towards ameliorating social and emotional isolation and adjustment problems, which is the primary goal of the group. The group process provides a forum for interpersonal support while enhancing knowledge and use of leisure time.
Sibling Support Group Program
Location: Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center (Pediatric Developmental Center)
Street Address: 3040 N Wilton, 2nd Floor
City/State/Zip: Chicago, IL 60657
Contact: Ahren Hoffman
Phone: 773-296-8127 Email: ahren.hoffman@advocatehealth.com
Details: Group runs on a seasonal basis. The typical breakdown of our groups are every other Wednesday, 1 Friday and 1 Saturday per month during a season. Please contact Ahren for more information.
Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Street Address: 950 S. Mulford Road
City/State/Zip: Rockford, IL 61108
Contact: Gemma Fletcher, PT
Phone: 815 381-8532 Email: rockfordsci@yahoo.com
Details: Meets 2nd Wednesday of each month, 6–7:30 p.m. On Facebook at Rockford SCI Support Group.
Indiana
SBA of Indiana
Location: Indianapolis, IN 46219
Phone: 317-592-1630 Email: shalon.sbain@gmail.com
SCI Support Group
Location: Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana (main conference room)
Street Address: 4141 Shore Drive
City/State/Zip: Indianapolis, IN 46254
Contact: Douglas Woodwell
Phone: 317-966-2423 Email: douglas.woodwell@gmail.com
Details: Meets the 3rd Tuesday of the month, from 6:30-8:00 pm.
Iowa
SCI Support Group
Location: Mercy Medical Center, 4th floor of the main building
Street Address: 1111 6th Ave.
City/State/Zip: Des Moines, IA 50314
Contact: Megan Brenneman
Email: MBrenneman2@mercydesmoines.org
Details: SCI Support Group for any person affected by SCI, including friends, family members and caregivers. Meets the 2nd Tuesday of every month (March-November) at 6:00 pm.
QC SCI Support Group
Street Address: 1401 W. Central Park
City/State/Zip: Davenport, IA 52804
Contact: Molly Muhl OTR/L, CBIS
Phone: 563-421-1480 Email: muhlm@genesishealth.com
Details: Meets once a month at 6:30 pm. Schedule posted on website.
Spina Bifida Association of Iowa
Street Address: 8525 Douglas Ave. Suite 39
City/State/Zip: Urbandale, IA 50322
Southeastern Iowa Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Street Address: 1221 S. Gear Ave.
City/State/Zip: West Burlington, IA, 52655
Contact: Chris McBride
Phone: 319-878-3536
Details: Meet others who have spinal-cord injuries. Come for conversation, encouragement and new friendships. Meets at 6:30-8:30 p.m. the 3rd Thursday of every month.
Kentucky
SBA of Kentucky (2 locations)
Louisville Office: Kosair Charities Centre
Address: 982 Eastern Pkwy, Box 18, Louisville, KY 40217
Phone: (866) 340-SBAK (7225), (502) 637-7363
Lexington Office: Shriners Hospital for Children
Address: 1900 Richmond Rd, Lexington, KY 40502
Phone: (859) 268-5798
Email: SBAK@sbak.org
Louisiana
Baton Rouge Spinal Cord Support Group
Street Address: 8595 United Plaza Blvd
City/State/Zip: Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Contact: Roxane Bingham
Phone: 225-231-3123
Email: roxane.bingham@brrehab.com
Details: Meets 3rd Tuesday of every month at noon – lunch provided for SCI group & caregivers.
Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Street Address: 1401 Foucher St.
City/State/Zip: New Orleans, LA 70115
Contact: Jim Ghere, Case Manager
Phone: (504) 897-8419 Email: James.Ghere@touro.com
Details: Out patient spinal cord injury support group the meets every 2nd Saturday of each month from 11:30-1:00 pm. If you would like to join the support group, please call or email Jim.
Maryland
Caregivers Support Group
Location: Kernan Hospital, SCI-CMR Gym-room G615
Street Address: 2200 Kernan Drive
City/State/Zip: Baltimore, MD 21207-6697
Contact: Gwen Alexander
Phone: 410-448-6311 Email: galexander@umm.edu
Details: Open group for all caregivers and does not focus on a specific disability, disease or condition. Meets the 4th Tuesday of each month from 6-7:00pm.
Kernan Hospital Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Street Address: 2200 Kernan Drive
City/State/Zip: Baltimore, MD, 21207
Contact: Michael Henley
Phone: (410) 448-6307 Email: mhenley@kernan.umm.edu
Details: Meets 2nd Tuesday of each month 6-8 p.m. in the SCI Gym. SCI Patient Education Classes are offered every Tues., Wed., Thurs. and Sat. 11:30 a.m.-12 noon.
Multiple Sclerosis Support Group
Location: Kernan Hospital
Street Address: 2200 Kernan Drive
City/State/Zip: Baltimore, MD 21207-6697
Contact: Janice Wilson, CTRS
Phone: 410-448-6721 Email: jwilson@kernan.umm.edu
Details: Information, education, resources and social networking for individuals with MS. Meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 6-7 p.m.
Regeneration/Generation Meetings
Street Address: 801 North Broadway
City/State/Zip: Baltimore, MD 21205
Contact: Colleen Gillette, PT
Email: ICSCIsupport@kennedykrieger.org
Details: Meets one Monday a month from 12-2. Lunch is provided for those who RSVP. Each month features a new and exciting topic presentation or discussion. Please send email for more information regarding this group.
Massachusetts
BMC Support/Discussion Group Meeting
Street Address: 7 West-Harrison Ave Campus
City/State/Zip: Boston, MA, 02111
Phone: (781) 933-8666 Email: sciboston@aol.com
Details: Meets at 4:00 PM every 3rd Tuesday of the month.
Braintree Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Street Address: 250 Pond Street
City/State/Zip: Braintree, Massachusetts, 02184
Contact: Michelle Heath
Phone: 781-348-2250 Email: mheath@5sqc.com
Details: Provides a supportive environment for individuals who have experienced a SCI. Family members and friends are welcome. Meets the 4th Wednesday of each month, 6:00-7:30p.m. Please call Michelle Heath prior to attending the meeting.
SBA of Greater New England (Formerly SBA of Massachusetts)
219 East Main St Suite 100B Milford, MA 01757
Phone: 508-482-5300 Toll Free: 888-479-1900
Email: edugan@SBAGreaterNE.org
Michigan
Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living (AACIL) Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Support Group
Street Address: 2568 Packard Road
City/State/Zip: Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48104
Contact: Jody Burton Slowins
Phone: (734) 663-0785 Email: shugie96@aol.com
Details: Meets every Monday, 7:00-8:30 pm except legal holidays. Support group for people who have multiple sclerosis, caregivers, personal assistants, significant others, family members, etc. All are welcome.
Caregivers Support Group
Location: Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan Novi Center
Street Address: 42005 W. 12 Mile Rd.
City/State/Zip: Novi, MI 48377
Contact: Mary Rich
Phone: (248) 305-7360
Details: Meets 3rd Wednesday of Every Month at 12:30 p.m.
SBA of Michigan Myelomeningocele Care Center
Location: Children’s Hospital of Michigan
Street Address: 3950 Beaubien Blvd.
City/State/Zip: Detroit, MI 48201
Email: lraman@sbaa.org
SCI Family/Client Support Group
Location: Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan Novi Center
Street Address: 42005 W. 12 Mile Rd.
City/State/Zip: Novi, MI 48377
Contact: Helene Rimer
Phone: 248-305-7373 Email: hrimer@dmc.org
Details: Meets every Wednesday, from 12:30-1:30 pm.
SCI Roundtable
Street Address: 261 Mack St.
City/State/Zip: Detroit, MI 48201
Contact: Kerri Macudzinski
Phone: (313) 745-1055 Email: kmacudzi@dmc.org
Details: Meets the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month, from 12-1:00 pm.
Minnesota
Kenny Grad School Community Education Group
Location: Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute
Street Address: 800 E. 28th Street
City/State/Zip: Minneapolis, MN, 55407
Contact: Jennifer Theis
Phone: (612) 863-3201 Email: Jennifer.Theis@allina.com
Details: Kenny Grad School provides a bimonthly forum for exploring ongoing issues along with identifying networking opportunities in the community. Presenters come from a variety of backgrounds, including physiatry, occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychology, social work, nutrition, therapeutic recreation, and even lay people in the community. Courses are free. Pre-registration is required – call 612-863-7306.
Mississippi
Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Location: Methodist Rehabilitation Center, 2nd Floor, BankPlus Conf. Center
Street Address: 1350 East Woodrow Wilson
City/State/Zip: Jackson, MS 39216
Contact: Merry Claire or Jennifer
Phone: 601-936-8889
Details: Meets the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. This support group is open to all SCI survivors, their families and caregivers.
Missouri
SCI Social Support Group
Location: SSM Rehabilitation Hospital
Street Address: 12380 DePaul Dr
City/State/Zip: Bridgeton, MO 63044
Contact: Christie Henson
Phone: 314-447-9643 Email: chenson@ssm-select.com
Details: Contact group leader for meeting dates and times.
Nebraska
Madonna Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Location: Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital
Street Address: 5401 South St.
City/State/Zip: Lincoln, NE, 68506
Contact: Diane Ulmer
Phone: 402-413-3185 Email: dulmer@madonna.org
Details: Meets every 3rd Wednesday of the month at 6 pm. The meetings provide an education topic of interest as well as time for support discussions and social time. The group occasionally travels outside of the facility for a recreational event. A mailing is sent out prior to each meeting to update the group on the education topic or recreational activity that will be held that month.
Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Location: Immanuel Medical Center, 8th Floor, East Dining Room
Street Address: 6901 N. 72nd Street
City/State/Zip: Omaha, NE 68122
Contact: Diana Palm, PT, DPT
Phone: (402) 572-2327 Email: diana.palm@alegent.org
Details: Meets every Wednesday, 12–1:00 p.m.
Nevada
Rebuilding All Goals Efficiently Inc (RAGE) SCI Network
Street Address: 2901 El Camino Ave Suite#102
City/State/Zip: Las Vegas NV, 89102
Contact: Reggie Bennett
Phone: 702-333-1038 Email: Reggie@bteamrage.org
Details: Each meeting place varies per the event for the month. SCI peers are advised to contact the RAGE office for information or by e-mail at info@bteamrage.org.
New Hampshire
NHNSCIA Peer Support Group
Street Address: 21 Chenell Drive
City/State/Zip: Concord, NH 03301
Contact: Mark Race
Phone: 603-228-9680 ext 1306 Email: mrace@gsil.org
Details: Meets the 3rd Friday of each month from 5:30-7:30 pm for group meetings and scheduled presentations.
Northeast Rehabilitation Health Network Support Group
Street Address: 70 Butler St.
City/State/Zip: Salem, NH 03079
Contact: Denise Sampson
Phone: (603) 247-1114 Email: Freetobeme5452@aol.com
Details: Held the 4th Friday of the month from noon to 2 p.m.
New Jersey
Bacharach Institute for Rehabilitation SCI group
Street Address: 61 W. Jimmie Leeds Rd
City/State/Zip: Pomona, New Jersey, 08240
Contact: Becky McGill
Phone: (609) 748-5411 Email: aalanbecky@comcast.net
Details: Meets the 3rd Thursday of each month from 4pm to 6pm. Some meetings are held at the hospital and some are held out in the community (usually recreational or social activities). The group also sends out a monthly newsletter with info and resources. They also have a Facebook page– South Jersey Spinal Cord Injury Support Group.
Spinal Cord Injury Peer and Resource Group
Street Address: 1199 Pleasant Valley Way
City/State/Zip: West Orange, NJ, 07052
Contact: Ronald Moore
Phone: 973-243-6884 Email: rjmoore@kessler-rehab.com
Details: Meets in the Second Floor Day Room from 6-8:00 pm on the last Thursday of each month. Consumer panel, discussion, care takers welcome. Any level SCI. Please RSVP. Pizza and refreshments will be served.
New Mexico
SCI/D Support Group
Location: Lovelace Rehab Hospital
City/State: Albuquerque, NM
Details: Meets 1st Thursday of every month at 5:30 pm.
New York
SCI & Caregiver Support Group
Street Address: 200 Belle Terre Road
City/State/Zip: Port Jefferson, NY 11777
Contact: Lorraine Sawyer
Phone: 631-474-6489 Email: lorraine.sawyer@chsli.org
Details: A support group for individuals with SCI/D and their caregivers. There will be food and refreshments. Please RSVP. Meetings are held in the board room on the 1st floor from 6:00-8:00pm.
SBA of Northeastern New York
Street Address: 123 Saratoga Rd
City/State/Zip: Scotia, NY 12302
Phone: 518-399-9151 Email: admin@sbaneny.org
SCI Community Transition Group
Street Address: One Bernard Baruch Way, Box 2-271
City/State/Zip: New York, NY 10010
Contact: Dr. Raymond Perez
Phone: 646-450-0077 Email: info@wheelingforward.org
Details: Contact group leader for details.
SCI/Amputee Support Groups
Location: Helen Hayes Hospital, 2nd Floor, In-patient Dining Room
Street Address: Route 9W
City/State/Zip: West Haverstraw, NY, 10993
Contact: Matthew Castelluccio
Phone: 845-786-4950 Email: castellucciom@helenhayeshosp.org
Details: Meets on Wednesday evenings from 6:00pm-7:30pm on the 3rd Wed. of every month. Open to individuals living with SCI and amputation, their families and friends. Guest speakers and open discussions. Available via web cast.
Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Location: Burke Rehabilitation Center Wood Pavilion, Building 7, Room G-41
Street Address: 785 Mamaroneck Avenue
City/State/Zip: White Plains, NY 10605
Contact: Stella Marino, LMSW
Phone: 914-597-2321 Email: smarino@burke.org
Details: Contact group leader for group meeting dates and times.
North Carolina
Cape Fear Valley Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Location: Southeastern Regional Rehabilitation Center of Cape Fear Valley Health System
Street Address: 1638 Owen Drive
City/State/Zip: Fayetteville, NC, 28304
Contact: James Jones
Phone: (910) 615-4051 Email: jamesj@capefearvalley.com
Details: Meets on the 1st Monday of each month at 3:00 p.m. in the SCI unit of Southeastern Regional Rehabilitation Center of Cape Fear Valley Health System, located directly behind Cape Fear Valley Medical Center. This group is for both inpatients and people in the community who have had spinal cord injuries. The group provides support for the patient and his or her family and allows the opportunity to discuss issues with others who have undergone the same experience.
Concord Area Spinal Cord Injury and/or Traumatic Brain Injury Support Group
Location: Forrest Hills United Methodist Church
Street Address: 8735 Math Road
City/State/Zip: Stanfield, NC, 28163
Contact: Eve Roberts Email: everoberts@carolina.rr.com
Details: This group serves families, friends, and individuals of all ages with injuries to the brain and/or spinal cord from motor vehicle accidents, falls, strokes, aneurysms, brain/spinal tumors, trauma, gun shot wounds, near drowning, disease and other causes. Group meets once a month, with speakers on occasion to address areas of concern and interest. Meets the 3rd Monday of each month.
SBA of the Carolinas
Phone: 800-621-3141 x20 Email: mnethercutt@sbaa.org
SCI/D Social Group – Charlotte
Street Address: 5007 Providence Road
City/State/Zip: Charlotte, NC 28226
Contact: Courtney Merchant
Phone: 1-704-355-5069 Email: courtney.merchant@carolinashealthcare.org
Details: Meets every 3rd Saturday of every month, 12:30–2:30 pm.
Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Support Group- Burlington – Mebane area
Street Address: 633 Corregidor St
City/State/Zip: St Mebane, NC 27302-7138
Contact: Debbie Myers
Phone: 336-578-6788 Email: dmyers8@triad.rr.com
Details: Monthly meeting for people with SCI/D, their families and friends. Meets the 3rd Monday of every month, 6:30-8:00 pm.
Ohio
BrightSide
Street Address: 151 W. Galbraith Road
City/State/Zip: Cincinnati, Ohio, 45216
Contact: Leo Dunnigan
Phone: (513) 418-4382 Email: ldunnigan@cinci.rr.com
Details: SCI Support Group for individuals in Cincinnati, Ohio. Group meets first Thursday of the month at 6.30 p.m
Living in the Solution-Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Location: Union Hospital, Toomey Front Conference Room
Street Address: 659 Boulevard St
City/State/Zip: Dover, OH 44622
Contact: Brad and Sue Shepherd
Phone: 330-340-3813 or 330-343-2860 Email: sbshepherd813@gmail.com
Details: Meets the 2nd Thursday of the month at 7:00 pm.
Mahoning Valley SCI Support Group
Location: Hillside Rehabilitation Hospital, Occupational Room
Street Address: 8747 Squires Lane NE
City/State/Zip: Warren, OH 44484
Contact: Elizabeth Shank-Treasure/Peer Contact
Phone: 330-841-3709 Email: Elizabeth_Shank@vchs.net
Details: Meets the 2nd Monday of each month at 5:00 PM.
SBA of Northwest Ohio
Street Address: 302 Conant St., Suite C
City/State/Zip: Maumee, OH 43537
Phone: 419-794-0561 Email: jobrien@sbanwo.org
Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Street Address: 480 Medical Center Drive, Purple Room-1st Floor
City/State/Zip: Columbus, OH 43210
Contact: Juanita Ash
Phone: 614-366-4270
Details: This group is for new and old injuries and is facilitated by individuals who have experienced life with a SCI. The purpose is to help others share their successes and manage the day-to-day challenges of living with SCI.
Oklahoma
NeuroResources OKC/Wheels Of Change Advocacy
Street Address: 6108 NW 63rd St
City/State/Zip: Oklahoma City, OK 73132
Contact: Willis Washington
Phone: 214.417.1195 (C) or 405.605.1466 (O) Email: willis@neuroresources.org
Details: Group meets 3rd Monday of every month at 4:30 PM.
Oklahoma City Area Support Group
Contact: Rick Lewis
Phone: (405) 321-3203 Email: RollinRick1175@aTT.net
Details: Oklahoma City Area Support Group for individuals with SCI.
Oregon
Gay, Lesbian, Bi, Trans & Disabled Support Group
Street Address: 4115 N Mississippi Ave
City/State: Portland, OR
Contact: Dan Pierce
Phone: (503) 893-5756
Email: pdxglbtqidisabled@comcast.net
Details: The goal is to allow everyone a chance to connect with the larger community of similar people just like you for; discussion, guest speakers, field trips, socials and a nights out.
MS Support Group
Location: St. Charles Medical Center – Bend
Street Address: 2500 NE Neff Rd.
City/State/Zip: Bend, Oregon, 97701
Phone: 541- 382-4321
Details: This support group meets monthly and is open for people affected by Multiple Sclerosis. It focuses on concerns and issues unique to MS. Occasionally, special speakers are scheduled to present on topics specific to Multiple Sclerosis. This is a drop-in group, no registration required. Check in with the greeter at the main front entrance of St. Charles Medical Center – Bend to confirm room location, but they usually meet in the rehab conference room on the lower level. No meeting June, July or August.
SCI Resource and Support Group
Location: Hilyard Community Center
Street Address: 2580 Hilyard St.
City/State/Zip: Eugene, OR 97405
Contact: Tim Shearer
Phone: 541-683-7921 Email: timwshearer@comcast.net
Details: Meets the 2nd Tuesday of every month from 3:30–5:00 p.m.
Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Street Address: 405 Tallmadge Rd.
City/State/Zip: Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
Contact: Stephanie Adamov
Phone: 330-436-0966 Email: stephanie.adamov@akrongeneral.org
Details: Group provides education and support to people with SCI, and their families. Free admission and parking. Light refreshments are provided. Meets 2nd Monday of each month, 7–8:30 p.m.
Pennsylvania
Central PA SCI Networking
Location: Benton, PA 17814
Contact: Shelly White
Phone: 717-270-1788
Email: spineywhite@comcast.net
Details: We provide support and friendship for new and old injuries, their families and friends.
Chronic Pain Management Support Group
Location: HealthSouth Nittany Valley Rehabilitation Hospital
Street Address: 550 W. College Avenue
City/State/Zip: Pleasant Gap, PA 16823
Contact: Peter O’Donnell
Phone: 814 359-3421, ext 1231
Details: Group is held online, a web-based support and discussion group.
Family Peer Group
Location: Magee Rehabilitation Hospital (SCI Unit, Room 537)
Street Address: 1513 Race Street
City/State/Zip: Philadelphia, PA 19102
Contact: Ruth Black, LCSW
Phone: (215) 587-3030 Email: rblack@mageerehab.org
Details: Family Peer Mentors are family members and/or loved ones of individuals who have sustained a SCI and have successfully transitioned to living life with a disability. They are volunteers who are specially trained to guide and provide SCI related information and experiences to families and loved ones of newly injured individuals. Mentoring can be done in the form of participating in the family group which is held twice monthly at Magee or contacting a new family by telephone or face to face if possible. Given the geographic area Magee serves, we attempt to be creative and flexible with mentoring requests. Meets two Wednesdays a month at 6 p.m.
Good Shepherd Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Street Address: 850 S. Fifth Street
City/State/Zip: Allentown, PA 18103
Contact: Bonnie Kuhns
Phone: 610-776-3393 Email: bkuhns@gsrh.org
Details: If you’re living with a SCI, this group allows you to meet and socialize with others with similar conditions. Meets the 3rd Wednesday of every month from 2-3 p.m. There is no cost and no doctor prescription is required.
MS Support Group
Location: HealthSouth Nittany Valley Rehab Hospital
Street Address: 550 W. College Ave.
City/State/Zip: Pleasant Gap, PA 16823
Contact: Steve Uberti
Phone: 814-359-3421 Email: ubertis@healthsouth.com
Details: Meets 3rd Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m.
P.R.O.U.D. (People Regardless Of oUr Disabilities)
Street Address: 150 Mundy St.
City/State/Zip: Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
Contact: Lynda Williams
Phone: 570-825-9333 Email: proudofluzco@aol.com
Details: Meets the 2nd Tuesday of every month.
SCI & Sexuality: Education Support Group
Location: Magee Rehabilitation, 2nd Floor Conference Rooms
Street Address: 1513 Race Street
City/State/Zip: Philadelphia, PA 19102
Contact: Trisha Hicks
Phone: (215) 587-3031 Email: thicks@mageerehab.org
Details: Individuals and Couples welcome! Meets every other Tuesday from 6-7 pm. Please contact Trisha Hicks to ask about upcoming dates. YOU pick the topics. Topics covered may include: dating, relationships, body image, assistive devices, sex and medicine, relationship roles, contraception, sexual values, intimacy, sexual health, partners as caregivers, sex with ourselves, sex with others, communication, anatomy and physiology.
Spina Bifida Association of Delaware Valley
Location: Havertown, PA
Phone: (215) 300-4150 Email: info@sbadv.org
SCI Resource & Support Group
Location: Magee Rehabilitation (Second Floor Conference Room)
Street Address: 1513 Race Street
City/State/Zip: Philadelphia, PA 19102
Contact: Marie Protesto
Phone: (215) 587-3174 Email: peers@mageerehab.org
Details: This group provides education, recreation and support opportunities to individuals with spinal cord injuries. Traditionally, meetings are held at Magee on the 2nd Thursday of every month at 6 pm. However, social outings are scheduled based on availability and pricing.
SCI Support Group
Location: Healthsouth Reading Rehabilitation Hospital, Life Center
Street Address: 1623 Morgantown Road
City/State/Zip: Reading, PA, 19607
Contact: Robin Goodman Phone: 610-775-2466
Details: Meets the 2nd Saturday of every month from 6–8:00 p.m.
Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Street Address: 320 Guys Run Road
City/State/Zip: Pittsburgh, PA, 15238
Contact: Michelle McCracken
Phone: 412-828-1300 ext. 7200 Email: michelle.mccracken@healthsouth.com
Details: Meets 2nd Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m.
Rhode Island
Southern New England Rehab Center Support Group
Location: Southern New England Rehab. Center, 3 West outpatient gym
Street Address: 21 Peace St
City/State/Zip: Providence, RI 02907
Contact: Stacey Johnson OTR/L ATP
Phone: 401-456-4177 Email: sjohnson@chartercare.org
Details: Meets the 3rd Wednesday, every other month from 4:30-6:00 pm.
South Carolina
Florence Breeze Group
Location: HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Florence
Street Address: 900 E. Cheeves Street
City/State/Zip: Florence, SC 29506
Contact: Ronnie McFadden
Phone: (843) 319-2293 Email: Ronnielmc@yahoo.com
Details: Call leader for meeting date and time.
Midlands Breeze Group
Location: HealthSouth Rehab Hospital of Columbia – Cafeteria
Street Address: 2935 Colonial Drive
City/State/Zip: Columbia, SC 29203
Contact: Diane Epperly
Phone: (803) 252-2198 Email: info@scspinalcord.org
Details: Meets at 6:00 p.m. on last Tuesday of the month. Dinner is served.
Orangeburg Breeze Group
Street Address: 3000 St. Matthews Road
City/State/Zip: Orangeburg, SC 29118
Contact: Rebecca Felder
Phone: (803) 829-2043 Email: rebecca.felder@yahoo.com
Details: Meets at 6:30 p.m. on 2nd Thursday of the month. Dinner is served.
Rock Hill Breeze Group
Street Address: 222 S. Herlong Avenue
City/State/Zip: Rock Hill, SC, 29732
Contact: Terry & Donna Shortt
Phone: (803) 524-3465 Email: melashortt@aol.com
Details: Meets at 6:00 p.m. on the 2nd Tuesday of each month. Dinner is served.
Spartanburg Breeze Group
Street Address: 101 St. Matthews Lane
City/State/Zip: Spartanburg, SC, 29301
Contact: Dot Colson
Phone: (864) 595-1947 Email: dcolson@dennys.com
Details: Meets at 6:30 p.m. on the 4th Tuesday of the month. Dinner is served.
Tennessee
Chattanooga Adventurers and Assistance Dogs Social Group
Location: Siskin Hospital, Outpatient Main Conference Room
Street Address: One Siskin Plaza
City/State/Zip: Chattanooga, TN 37403
Contact: Amy Kerin
Phone: 423-697-0957 Email: cadasocialgroup@gmail.com
Details: This is a social group for young adults/adults with disabilities and their Assistance Dogs. This is a great way for your Assistance Dog to meet new friends and get together monthly to enjoy different activities while making some lifelong friends! If you’d like to work on some basic training touchups with your Assistance Dog, there will be a trainer at the meetings, so it’s a great way to keep your Assistance Dog working in style. Meets 3rd Thursday, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Spinal Cord Injury Peer Support Group
Location: Vanderbilt Stallworth Rehabilitation
Street Address: 2201 Children’s Way (across from Vanderbilt Childrens Hospital)
City/State/Zip: Nashville, TN, 37212
Contact: Carrie Redmon
Phone: (615) 963-4051
Email: Carrie.Redmon@healthsouth.com
Details: Meets every 3rd Tuesday of each month from 6 to 7:30 pm (Belmont Classroom, 3rd floor). There is typically a guest speaker at each meeting. Refreshments will be served.
Texas
East Texas Neuro Support Group
City/State/Zip: Nacogdoches, TX 75964
Contact: Todd Petershagen
Phone: 936-564-1433 Email: prciltodd@yahoo.com
Details: Meeting locations varies month to month, contact group leader for location. Meeting are one Saturday a month.
Rolling Inspiration San Antonio
Location: South Presa Community Center
Street Address: 3721 S Presa St.
City/State/Zip: San Antonio, TX,78210
Contact: Christopher Salas
Phone: (210) 748-8586 Email: chris@rolling-inspiration.org
Details: Meets the 2nd Wednesday of every month from 12:00-2:00 pm. Also meets the last Friday of the month from 12:00-2:00 pm at Warm Springs Rehab Hospital. Lunch and transportation are provided if necessary. The group provides an upbeat place for individuals with SCI or similar neuro survivors and their caregivers to connect with other people who have experienced the same life-changing injury. In addition to guest speakers and discussions on topics of interest, meetings also include quarterly social and recreational outings.
SBA of North Texas
Street Address: 705 W Avenue B, Suite 204
City/State/Zip: Garland, TX 75040
Phone: 972-238-8755 Email: rlee@spinabifidant.org
Web: www.spinabifidant.org
Spinal Cord Injury Peer Support Group
Street Address: 1005 East 32nd St.
City/State/Zip: Austin, TX 78705
Contact: Pam Fletcher
Phone: 512-826-0813 Email: pam.fletcher@stdavids.com
Details: Meets 2nd Thursday of each month at 4:30 pm (may differ in Nov and/or Dec).
Washington
Northwest Spinal Injury Network
Street Address: 2901 Squalicum Parkway
City/State/Zip: Bellingham, WA, 98225
Contact: Patrick Madsen
Phone: (360) 332-8484 Email: peMadsen2000@yahoo.com
Details: Meets the 1st Monday of the month at 6:00 PM in the rehab unit meeting room.
Northwest Women Wheelers Network
City/State: Seattle, WA
Contact: Ann Fey
Email: info@nwwwn.org
Details: This is a social and support group consisting of wheelchair using women from all “walks” of life. Ages range from 20s to 70s. The group was formed after an SCI forum on women’s issues at the University of Washington Medical Center. Most of our members have SCI, but we also have members with MS and other disabilities. Our members reside in the Greater Seattle/Tacoma area. We also have members in Oregon and one in California. Activities include an annual family picnic, holiday party, community action committee, and social and sporting events.
SCI Forum
Location: Department of Rehabilitation Medicine
Street Address: University of Washington
City/State/Zip: Seattle, WA 98195
Contact: Cynthia Salzman
Phone: 206-685-3999 Email: csalzman@u.washington.edu
Details: Monthly evening presentation and discussion series on SCI-related topics.
Washington D.C.
SBA of the Mid-Atlantic Region
Street Address: 4590 MacArthur Blvd. NW Suite 250
City/State/ Zip: Washington, DC 20007
Phone: 202-618-4747 Email: sbamar@sbamar.org
West Virginia
Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Street Address: 1160 Van Voorhis Road
City/State/Zip: Morgantown, WV 26505
Contact: Sue Bolyard
Phone: 304-598-1100, 800-388-2451 Email: sue.bolyard@healthsouth.com
Details: Meets the 3rd Monday of each month, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Wisconsin
Madison SCI Support Group
Location: Wellspring United Methodist Church
Street Address: 5702 South Hill Drive
City/State/Zip: Madison, WI 53705
Contact: Monica Kamal
Phone: (608) 444-2225 Email: Monica@SCI-Madison.org
Details: Provide an open forum for discussion on spinal cord injury, disease, and paralysis topics including wheelchair activities and accessibility issues. Provide mentoring and awareness. Offer adaptive and accessible events & activities for the individual & family. Group welcomes anyone with an interest such as nursing students, physical therapists, doctors, and all persons with any kind of disability and their families. The focus is primarily on paralysis, wheelchair, and adaptive recreation. Meets the 2nd Monday of the month from 6:00-7:30 pm.
National and/or Web-based
BACKBONES
Location: Prospect Heights, IL
Contact: Reveca Torres
Phone: 618-724-5484
Email: info@backbonesonline.com
Details: BACKBONES exists to provide free support for people with spinal cord injury and their families. Through our network we facilitate telephone, in-person, or web-based connections and encourage growth by the sharing of experiences and ideas. As a host to events, BACKBONES creates an inviting atmosphere where people can ask questions, learn from each other informally, and make lasting friendships.
Cerebral Palsy Support Group
Location: Facebook
Details: This is a group for parents, siblings, grandparents, caregivers, and to those who have CP to come together and learn from each other.
Pushrim – Spinal Cord Injury Support Group
Contact: Ramon Pizarro
Phone: 562-449-6972 Email: ipushrim@gmail.com
Details: Call group leader for more information – 562-449-6972.
Spina Bifida Support Group
Location: Facebook
Details: To join, answer 3 security questions
Spinal Cord Injury Support
Location: Facebook
Details: This group was created for those in the SCI Community who are looking for support, encouragement, and information. Group welcomes people with a SCI (traumatic or non-traumatic), caregivers, family members and close friends (upon request of the SCI individual or caregiver), medical professionals, therapists, and trainers.
You Are Not Alone – Dealing With Spinal Cord Injury
Location: Facebook
Details: This group is here to help others get through everyday day issues with spinal cord injury (SCI). Group is open to any topic, as long as it remains respectful and relevant.
WHEELCHAIR AND MOBILITY AID USERS SUPPORT GROUP
Location: Facebook
Details: This group was created to share the strengths of the group members and share thoughts and ideas.
Is there a peer support group that you enjoy that isn’t on our list? Comment below and we’ll be happy to add it!
No support group in your area? Start your own or contact your local United Spinal chapter, Independent Living Center or rehab center and see if they may want to collaborate.
For another great resource, check out the Cure Nation! You’ll find all kinds of helpful stuff, including free articles, advocate stories and more!
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