How do I recruit volunteers to lead parents groups?

Question

I'm trying to do community outreach to parents who have children who have problem behaviors. I've done everything I know to do in order to reach these parents. My group is trying to start support groups and I am at a loss. The parents groups are lead by other parents and we train them for free. I have put things in the paper, I have sent information out to other agencies, I have contacted the school districts etc. I hear people saying they want this type of group and our surveys reflect that but getting them to come is just stressing me out. Any "low" cost ideas you have would be greatly appriciated.

Answer 1

A lot of what J R says makes sense. Trying to recruit parent volunteers is always really difficult but once you have got the parents on your side and helping you the benefits are endless. You could try an informal coffee morning to get people together and discuss what people really want, you can also tell them the benefits of parents running a group and how it helps people to stop feeling like they are the only ones who are in that situation. No one knows better about living with children with problems with behaviours than the parents. Parents usually have the best coping strategies and the experience. They also know who to turn to in times of crisis. I think the best low cost idea would be an informal gathering with drinks and snacks. If you can get a speaker, perhaps some one from the education department or some one who works with these children then try and get them for free by telling them what you are planning. Most professionals are only too happy to help if you tell them what you are going to do. Good luck.

Answer 2

I would personally ask those parents that you know are strong leaders, strong advocates for their children, and hunger for more information/help on what they are encountering in their lives.  It seems to me that it's usually the same people being asked to lead, but they are your best source of support.  You have a lot of parents wanting the support and information, but they are more thank likely just "stuck" in their own existence.  

Another avenue you might want to pursue is inviting a guest speaker to your first meeting.  You may have to pay a nominal fee, but if you can get someone who is of high interest to the group, you will pull in more of an audience.  Once you have the audience, you can ask for their assitance in your group.

Answer 3

Have you considered that the support groups may be at the wrong time? Many parents work and could be having probs getting to these groups. My daughters school has something similar but on a Friday morning during term time. No chance of me getting to it! If you do go for an evening group you would have to consider parents arrangements for child care, not easy with a "problem" child.