For women, providing support in a social setting seems to work better than the traditional mainstream groups designed by men. Women who have just received a diagnosis of AIDS or HIV, may find traditional support groups too intimidating or may perceive it as a frightening experience. We find, the more informal social setting, especially at first, provides a nurturing environment needed for the women to resist the tendency to remain alone and isolated. I personally look forward to the first Sunday of each month, because I know once again, that I get to experience the true meaning of women empowering women. No woman with HIV or AIDS should have to miss out on such an experience.
Children are an important part of our lives, and are included in some of the activities.
Women are welcome to bring their children. We try to have a volunteer baby-sitter on site. This is not the ideal situation to give the mom's a break from the kids. Sometimes, the children's needs interfere with mom's social time. We are currently working on developing a play area for the kids at the same location but away from the main event.