[ShellM]

Hello, just wondering if anyone has attended a support group with their agency? AO has one in Edmonton, just wondering if it's just for those on the official wait list, or open to anyone? I'll call, but just wonder if anyone has gone? Do they have speakers, or just a bunch of individuals to talk with? I found the infertility group to be very helpful... but wished I had joined sooner. Any thoughts?

[taramayrn]

Hi Shell, they are open for anyone who is waiting with that agency.

[Leigh131313]

We have our own support group here in Lethbridge. It isn't run by anyone, but they do advertise for us. Our social worker here in town is a HUGE supporter of our group. She mentions us to her clients, in case they wish to meet with other adoptive parents.

[ShellM]

Thanks for the input! Our SW highly recommends us to go. That way we can also get to know the facilitators at the agency, and they can get to know us. We go on Monday, exciting! There is a new topic each month. Just speaking with others going through it will be great! It is essentially up to the birthmom, but having the staff know us as well should help our chances? It can't hurt.

[blessedbybug]

Originally Posted by ShellM

Hello, just wondering if anyone has attended a support group with their agency? AO has one in Edmonton, just wondering if it's just for those on the official wait list, or open to anyone? I'll call, but just wonder if anyone has gone? Do they have speakers, or just a bunch of individuals to talk with? I found the infertility group to be very helpful... but wished I had joined sooner. Any thoughts?

I believe they are open to anyone. I have attended the Waiting Families group in Edmonton occasionally, but I have had to be very selective because until recently, we lived about 2 1 /2 hours away. We won't be able to attend the adoptive families group even though we now live here because Hubby teaches that night... sigh... if it is not one thing it is another... Go... I think it would be great to have that regular support.