Your support group has just completed. Do you remember who walked through that door weeks ago? You have changed. Confusion is abating, confidence returning. Those "strangers" you first encountered in the gorup have become confidants, comforters, trusted supporters. You are not ready to say "goodbye".

CGSS assists support groups in forming "friendship groups" to aid in the transition from bereavement to re-socialization and new beginnings. These groups are informal gatherings of folks who have been members of a support group and wish to continue the friendships they have made, and the support and sharing so needed during the transition time.

Friendship Groups continue to meet informally and independently. They choose meeting places most convenient for the group, whether in homes, restaurants, or other places. Members often form close friendships and many groups continue meeting for several years.

What is a Friendship Group?

• An informal gathering of members of a support group based on mutual sharing and mutual support to aid in the transition from the support group.
• Continues the friendships begun in the group.
• A time and place for socializing, strengthening new roles, learning new coping skills.
• A vehicle to continue to share concerns related to working through your grief; to check in on how each member is doing and what struggles or successes they are experienceing.

The grief journey challenges us to use our potential - it encourages us to discover our gifts and put them to use. Life as it was has been forever changed, but ahead, a new life is waiting. It can't ever be the same life you had before - and that's hard to face. But it can be a fulfilling and happy life!