Resources and Support for National MS Society Self-Help Group Leaders
There are nearly 1,400 Society affiliated self-help groups across the United States representing some 30,000 people with MS, family members and friends. The Society recognizes the valuable role self-help groups play in addressing the informational, emotional and social support needs of our members. We also recognize that well trained and supported self-help group leaders are key to the ongoing delivery of this core service.
The following resources are available to assist and support you in your leadership role:
Best Practices for Managing and Leading Self-Help Groups: A Manual for National MS Society Self-Help Group Leaders, a handbook for leaders containing group management guidelines, strategies for maintaining group member engagement, managing difficult behaviors, and tools for measuring the group effectiveness. Download the handbook.
Telelearnings
| Topic | Download Materials | Date of Training |
| Managing Interpersonal Dynamics: In the Group Setting and Beyond | 9/09 | |
| Thinking Outside the Box: Using Nationwide Programs in the Group Setting | 11/09 | |
| Mood and Cognition Issues in MS (Part I) | 4/10 | |
| Mood and Cognition Issues in MS (Part II) | 9/10 | |
| Strategies to Engage Group Members In and Outside the Group Setting | 6/10 | |
| Emerging Oral Therapies | 2/11 | |
| Using a Strengths Perspective in Peer-to-Peer Relationships |
Part 1 (.mp3) Part 2 (.mp3) Handout (.pdf) |
6/11 |
| An Overview of the Programs and Services of the National MS Society and Our Partners |
Society Programs and Services (.pdf) CaringBridge (.pdf) |
10/11 |
| Making Comfortable Treatment Decisions: Tips for Thinking Clearly about Benefits and Risks | 2/12 |
Meeting Tool Kits
To facilitate dialogue and discussion around issues important to people living with MS, the Society has developed meeting tool kits for use in your meetings. These kits are intended to provide a framework for discussion around critical topics.
| Toolkit | Download Materials |
| Effective Communication and Self Advocacy |
Case studies of self advocacy in various life settings, including: |
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Working for Me: Research in Understanding and Treating Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (North American Education Program 2011)
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| Free From Falls: A Fall Prevention Programs for People with MS | |
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Live Fully, Live Well: A Wellness Program for People with MS and Their Support Partners |