Often a facilitator's nurturing presence is the critical factor to help them gain a new sense of purpose and direction from someone who consistently listens, cares, and leads by example. Now, for countless youngsters, their group facilitators can be such people. Although still very quiet in group, Jessie listened intently to every word others shared. An occasional nod of her head signaled she knew all too well what the others had experienced. Support groups can help youngsters become balanced, healthy kids who can rise above family adversity.
Today there is real hope as children, with love and guidance, create that new legacy.
Jessie, now eleven, talks openly about her father's alcoholism in the safety of the group. I hate his sickness but I love him. When Jessie sees her father each month, she carries the phone numbers of safe people. If he gets drunk, she calls Grandpa, Mom, or Uncle Louis to come pick her up. Jerry Moe, MA is the director of the Children's Program at the Betty Ford Center, in Rancho Mirage, CA. and a member of NACoA's Board of Advisors.