no BP support groups in my area, how to start one.

Looking around there is a lack of support groups for us BP's so I was looking to start a meetup. I don't even know how I would go about finding space, and advertising for this. I was thinking maybe a church?? I don't know, any thoughts?

Don't host it in your home. You don't want freaks like me knowing where you live. Maybe a library or a social services center with a meeting room?

Churches are typical.

I would never host at my house haha, I dont even know where to start in approaching a church. then there is getting the word out.

I'd contact NAMI for guidance, then just start cold-calling churches in the area.

Many churches give space. Just call the church office.

First contacting NAMI is a great idea. They will know what's around and maybe can help out.

Local hospitals and universities often list support groups.
Many newspapers list support groups for free.


WC

I don't have any solid advice, but I think it's awesome that you want to start a BP support group! I'm sure other people nearby you wished there were one, so I hope everything works out for you.

I would definitely put the group on meetup.com once you get it set up

I initially found one on MeetUp. It was less formal, more social and we met at a diner. But MeetUp could be a way to spread the word.

PM me if you'd like

Many churches will provide meeting space at a very reasonable rate or stipend. It is important however that the church recognize the need for inclusivity rather than excluding non church members.

To fund the operating costs of the hall rental and things like tea and coffee perhaps have a cash tin. We fundraise by volunteering at local functions. (ie. the Rotary club gives us a donation to cover our operating costs in return for providing a clean-up crew at a festival they operate). Ensure you have a bank account.

If this is to be a self moderated group, draw up some rules and guidelines (PM me)

Advertise. We have a free advertisement in a weekly community newspaper. We advertise on a few websites like 211 and community organizations. Several clinics have allowed us to post posters and leave pamphlets. Word of mouth seems to bring in a lot of new people.

Decide who is going to run the group. It might be a good idea to have an annual vote on an executive.

So I contacted NAMI and got some good information and an offer to advertise on their website if I can get this started. Next stop Meetup to see if I can generate interest.

That's terrific!

That's great! If I ever can through a Monday without either my therapist or I having a problem that prevents me from being in the city at the right time I'll be going to a group that is pretty new there. I'd love to eventually try to start one here as there is nothing around here (the city is 75 minutes away and I'm just glad there is finally a group there on the day I'm there for therapy).

grrrr Meetup costs money to start a group. I am not sure how best to reach the same audience of people as easily. But I cant spend 15/mo right now.