“Chance occurrences have caused our paths to meet. Destiny has joined our hearts and made our life complete.
We pledge to be loyal and respect each other with trust and confidentiality.”

When: 3rd Friday Monthly     Where: 452 Old Corydon Road     Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

What is a Peer Support Group
A peer support group consists of those infected and affected by HIV/AIDS and a trained facilitator. The group meets once every month for a set period of time for a couple of hours at a time. The group meets to discuss issues affecting their lives and their concerns, in a non-threatening, nonjudgmental environment. It is a forum to take back control over their lives and reduce feelings of isolation through the shared experiences of others.

Confidentiality
Confidentiality is of paramount importance. We must always keep confidentiality in mind. This is seen as an important value in the groups. It needs to be respected so that everyone feels comfortable. Group members are asked to commit to never talk about what goes on in the group in a way that may reveal the identity of a group member.

Objectives
Provide a safe place to express feelings (of sadness, fear, guilt, anger, loneliness etc.), discuss topics such as sex issues, disclosure, work/employment, treatment and medical issues etc. The members of the group decide on ground rules, discussion topics and invite guest speakers. To explore quality of life options how others deal and live with HIV. Find practical ways to live day by day with the virus. Establish support networks for group members.

Guidelines for Support Group
Be on time for each meeting. This is courtesy to others in the group. The meetings will start on time each week. If you are unable to attend then let a group facilitator in advance. Attend every week if possible. Regular attendance is important to maintain group solidarity. The group is not the same if you are not there for the meeting. Maintain Confidentiality.

Important Information
The group is led by the Facilitator provided by Matthew 25. No new attendees are admitted after it has started without group consent. All members are HIV positive/affected and are there to support one another in a nonjudgmental environment. Our groups are a safe space for people to simply be themselves. Groups are a golden opportunity to meet others who are HIV positive and share experiences that can help break down the feeling of isolation.

Peer facilitators have the opportunity to provide topics, information, speakers, presentations, etc. upon request for any group. If someone would like to Peer Facilitate a group, please have your materials, presentations, information, topics, etc. to Matthew 25 at least one week prior to the date of the group meeting so that we may assist with any copying, tailoring, or providing any additional information that Peer Facilitator may need.

How To Join A Group
Simply ring and ask one of the Matthew 25 facilitators, to put your name down on the list for the next available Peer Support Group. They will be available to answer any questions you may have concerning Peer Support Groups. For information on the next available Peer Support Group call Gary or Cookie at Matthew 25: (270) 826-0200 or (877) 428-1231