Support Programs
Support Groups Program Email: click here
Drop-in Groups:
The MRC
currently offers three drop-in support
groups. These groups are based on a simple premise: men
need a
safe, confidential place to talk honestly about their lives.
By
inviting men to "drop in"
without requiring an ongoing
commitment, the groups remain open and accessible. Trained volunteer
facilitators lead all support groups.
There is no fee, but donations are appreciated.
Please
Note:
We rely on voluntary donations
to keep our Support Groups going
without charging a fee.
Thank
you
to those group participants who have helped us
meet our financial needs (primarily rent for meeting space) for
sustaining the program.
Please come to groups prepared to make a contribution if you possibly
can but,
of course, if you can't afford to give, you're still
welcome!
Click
here to see a calendar with
meeting dates
and times. Click on any date in the calendar to access a map and
directions.
CANCELLATIONS:
In the event of
hazardous weather, we will post cancellation notices on this calendar
by late afternoon.
- General
Support Group:
This group is open to any man who wants to experience a men's group. Topics of discussion reflect the concerns of the participants. Groups are held in Hadley, atNorth Star Learning Center, 135 Russell Street, on Tuesday evenings(7:00 - 9:00 P.M). Entrance onRoute 47 opposite theHadley Town Hall .
There is some parking on the street, in the Town Hall parking lot, and behind the high school which is131 Russell St. There are signs directing participants to the meeting room on the second floor. - Group
for Men Who Have Experienced Childhood Abuse, Neglect,
and/or
Trauma:
This group is open to men who were subjected to abuse, neglect and/or trauma growing up and is designed specifically to ensure a sense of safety for participants. It is a facilitated peer support group and is not a therapy group. Group meetings are held on Fridays(7:00 - 9:00PM) at The Synthesis Center, 274 North Pleasant Street in Amherst.
PLEASE NOTE:
The
Friday Night MRC meeting is temporarily closed. The MRC is in the
process of rebuilding, reorganizing and developing new program
criteria. Please keep in touch and/or check in with the website as to
new developments in the near future. Thank you.
Steve Bernstein, MRC Director of Support Groups
- Gay,
Bisexual, Questioning and Transgender Group:
Specifically for men who identify as gay, bisexual, or who are questioning their sexual orientation, the purpose of this group is to provide a safe and supportive setting to share experiences and concerns. In addition to providing personal support, the group will be an opportunity for creating and strengthening local networks. Group meetings are held on Mondays(7:00 - 9:00PM) at The Synthesis Center, 274 North Pleasant Street in Amherst.
Participants in the Amherst groups are requested to park on the side of the lot closest to The Synthesis Center or at the parking meters on the street (free after 6PM).
IMPORTANT NOTE: To ensure safety and confidentiality in our support groups, no one is admitted once the group has begun. Please be sure to arrive early to assure your attendance.
Resource and Referral Information:
Individuals
can contact the MRC
for resources and referrals for various men's needs. Information about
counseling, legal, and emergency services are available. Just call us
at
Click here to contact us about support groups.