Discussion 1: Introduction to Group Support
Hi everyone! This is the first post of the course. Before we embark on the leadership and development aspects of groups, let's step back and immerse ourselves in the heart of 7Cups: Group Support.
Group support transcends the dictionary definition of a mere collection of individuals. It's a dynamic arena where attitudes, behaviors, and growth intertwine to create a powerful tapestry of connection and transformation.
At 7Cups, we started with personalized 1-on-1 support, but our community yearned for more. Recognizing the unique power of collective interaction, we nurtured group support as a safe haven for learning, sharing, and collective growth. We meticulously crafted chat rooms – not just as communication channels, but as embraceable spaces where diverse needs and aspirations blossom.
Today, over 150 dedicated chat rooms cater to a spectrum of purposes, catering to both adults and teens, listeners and members. From finding solace and navigating challenges to celebrating milestones and forging vibrant bonds, these rooms ignite the magic of belonging.
Moving forward, we identified the needs of moderating these rooms, so we introduced the chat room moderator role, figured out we need facilitators to lead different sessions in the chat rooms, so added Support Session Leader and On-spot Host as the recent addition to it. We figured out the safety issues in the chat rooms, and we badge locked the rooms. So as we learned more about the needs and demands, we kept iterating and evolving group support for better experiences and support for everyone. We are on a journey to build the best group support. And, we will continue to progress …
Remember, active participation in these discussions and activities is your stepping stone to implementing your learnings within the chat rooms, actively contributing to the vibrant landscape of group support.
Let's embark on this collaborative journey, where growth happens not just individually, but in the pulsating heart of our empowered community!
Question for reflection - Which group room do you like to spend the most time in and why?
I am still exploring rooms right now as a newbie, however the Group Support is a great space for people to vent and connect on a variety of issues. I also enjoy the 35 and Older room, as that age room shares similar childhood experiences, and I like to give tips and encouragement so people people adjust, interpret, and connect with younger generations, which I have a lot of experience and skills in.
I really like the sharing circle room garden room 50+ room and mindfulness room since they are so welcoming
@Hope I like spending time in the LGBTQ+ / MOGII Support room as it has very inclusive and calm vibes.
@Hope I enjoy spending time in the Teen Community Room (TCR) for light-hearted chats. Whenever I feel depressed and anxious, I go there and feel a bit lighter. I have a lot of fun there; it's a coping mechanism for me.
@Hope
My favorite group is Sharing Circle, because I believe this provides the most honest microcosm of society within a group.
I am still new to 7 cups and still trying to navigate around in the way that works best for my neurodiverse mind ;-) I have found myself in the poetry room and the 35 and older room slightly more than others. I love the power of words and the magic that is created when we “feel” those words (with feelings) and share them! And because I’m older experienced, I feel like the 35 and up crowd understands me best ;-)
@Hope
Which group room do you like to spend the most time in and why?
I like being in the depression chat room. As someone who suffers with depression, I want to give back and be a shining light to others who are going through it . I feel by the chat room knowing I suffer too then maybe they will be comfortable to open up and maybe talk with me so I may help them.
@Hope I do prefer to spend more time in the listener chat room because I find the shared experiences and understanding to be really valuable. Although i have been at 7 cups for a few months I would still consider myself to be quite new at this so having a space to chat with peers and also learn from others questions etc has been really valuable to me throughout this volunteering/interning time.
@Hope
I haven't spent much time in the rooms until now but the mindfulness room seems interesting and I followed a live discussion on relationships that was also intriguing
@Hope
Which group room do you like to spend the most time in and why?
family and caregiver group support room, because I m a family and caregiver community mentor
