passover:
I would like to know how you can make a support group lively? How do you remove stigma? I am leading a faith based group for our church members. Any web sites that could be useful? The group includes positive and negative members.
Matty the Damned:
Faith based? Perhaps you could tell us a little more about this group. Just so we can tailor our answers to your particular needs.
Welcome to the forums.
MtD
passover:
Sorry i did not explain.. faith based it is a group of Christians composed of both males and females, including youth. Is it clear ???
Matty the Damned:
Passover,
I figured it was christian. I'm presuming that it's an open minded and accepting group that welcomes people irrespective of their lifestyle/social-cultural group etc with a view to promoting friendship and fellowship in a supportive environment. Am I right?
If so, then the best way to addressing stigma is to encourage the members to take leadership in the group. Having an HIV positive person lead the group would be an excellent start. If you're not positive (Matty the Damned doesn't presume about these things) then maybe you can find someone in the group who might take on this role.
Also you might want to have guest speakers from local community based organisations come and talk with your members. The coordinator of the regional ASO (AIDS Service Organisation), representatives of the Gay and Lesbian communtiies and so on.
Does this help?
MtD
passover:
yes it is an open group which accepts members from all walks of life but we have rules that members must adhere to e.g. respect, prayers before sessions, going for VCTetc.