Virtual Peer Support Group
First Sunday of each month 7–8:30 PM
Adapting to a mobility impairment is hard enough, finding support shouldn’t have to be. We strive to connect individuals affected by mobility impairments and empower one another to engage in active and healthy lifestyles.
One of the ways we do this is by hosting a statewide Virtual Peer Support Group. So, do you have a question only another wheelchair user could answer? Or maybe you want to network and swap a few life hacks with peers? Whatever your “why” is, we would love it if you could join us for our next Virtual Peer Group!
YOU MUST REGISTER to attend the Virtual Peer Support Group. Use the Zoom link below to do so.
Zoom Link https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89796923280 Meeting ID: 897 9692 3280
For accommodations contact Jenna Batten at mentoring@unitedspinaliowa.org or (641) 799-9937.
Peer Mentoring — Pathway to Empowerment
What is the Peer Mentor Program?
Our Peer Mentor Program exists to foster connections among people in the community living with a spinal cord injury/disorder. After medical care and therapies, there can be a gap into the unknown for individuals who are re-entering the community. A peer mentor is someone who can bridge that gap. They have successfully adjusted to living with a spinal cord injury/disorder and can provide insight into what life may look like in the community and share stories of their life experience to offer a glimpse into living with a disability.
Connection
Connection with peers looks different for everyone. Peers are matched based on geography, similar age, experiences, interests, and stated needs. Support is provided for individuals living with a spinal cord injury/disorder and also for their caregivers and families. Peer mentors are people who have completed all required peer mentor training for this program and volunteer as a support system to others with a spinal cord injury/disorder, family members or caregivers. Peer mentors can live in state or out of state and can connect with peers in a variety of ways.
How Peers Connect
- Group activities
- One-on-one meetings at home, hospital, or in the community
- Through phone calls, FaceTime, Zoom, email, or social media
Connection Through the Peer Mentor Program Can Provide:
- Tips and tricks for activities of daily living
- Emotional support
- Companionship and friendship
- Social connection
- Opportunities to learn new recreational activities
- Connection to local resources and groups
Get Involved
Who Can Become A Peer?
- Individuals living with spinal cord injury/disorder
- Families or caregivers of individuals living with spinal cord injury/disorder
Who Can Become A Peer Mentor?
- Individuals at least 1-year post-injury
- Family members of individuals at least 1-year post-injury
- Caregivers of individuals at least 1-year post-injury
How to Get Started
Contact our Peer Mentoring Coordinator to learn more about becoming a peer mentor or connecting with a peer mentor in your area.
mentoring@unitedspinaliowa.org
515.444.4664