The four sessions (winter, spring, summer, and fall) of the H.O.P.E. program each have different topics so members may continue through a year of sessions without repeating topics unnecessarily.
The first meeting of every session consists of introductions and orientation to the program. The expected stages of the normal grief process are reviewed, and complicating factors are explained. Some of the subsequent topics may include surviving emotional upheaval; understanding depression; lifestyle changes; healing and growth; motivation and goal setting; exploring independence; building a personal support network; effective problem solving; and, in every session, loneliness.
Each meeting provides an opportunity for participants to raise problems they are facing. These are often simple things that others have faced and other members can offer solutions. There are also prepared materials on specific topics that the group leaders pass out and lead a discussion of the subjects. Attendees can just sit and listen or participate as much as they desire. The groups, which stay together for the entire 10-week session, are comprised of persons in all stages of their grief journey from first time participants to those who have attended as many as 3 or 4 sessions. This provides for continuity, comradery, and a wide range of grief, recovery, and new life experiences.
Fees
Participants may attend H.O.P.E. meetings for one or more ten-week sessions at any of our locations. There is a fee for each ten-week session. This fee covers a portion of the cost of program operations. While H.O.P.E. charges a modest registration fee, no one has ever been turned away for lack of funds. Contact the H.O.P.E. office if paying the registration fee presents a barrier to your participation in the H.O.P.E. program.
H. O. P. E. Chapter Topics
Spring Session (Begins the 1st Week in April)
Week 1
Examination of the Grief Process
Introduction and Orientation
Week 2
Understanding Depression
Awareness and Strategies for Coping with Sadness/Depression
Week 3
Support from Those Around Us
Inconsiderate Comments/Helpful Responses
Week 4
Take My Advice
How to Make Good Decisions
Week 5
Effective Problem Solving
How to Identify and Solve Problems
Week 6
Who Am I?
An Exploration of Self-Identity
Week 7
Guest Speaker — To Be Announced, or How Do You Cope?
Analyzing How You Are Doing
Week 8
Realistic Expectations
Are You Your Own Worst Enemy?
Week 9
Straight Talk
Positive Communications with Family and Friends
Week 10
Alone, Not Lonely
Learning to Live as a Single Person