Sibshops are coming to Cincinnati thanks to Clermont FAST TRAC, a system of care initiative of the Clermont County Mental Health & Recovery Board, funded by a grant from the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
Sibshops acknowledge that being the brother or sister of a person with special needs, including mental health needs, is for some a good thing, others a not-so-good thing, and for many, somewhere in-between. They reflect a belief that brothers and sisters have much to offer one another — if they are given a chance. Sibshops are a spirited mix of new games (designed to be unique, off-beat, and appealing to a wide ability range), new friends, and discussion activities. They give the “typical” sibs an opportunity to work through issues they may have regarding his/her family member with a disability.
Don Meyer, creator and Director of the Sibling Support Project in Seattle, Washington, will provide the two-day Facilitator training. Don is a sought after trainer and is involved with many projects, including the “Supporting Extended Family Members” program at the University of Washington. It is an honor to welcome him to Clermont County!
If you’re a parent, adult sib, student or service provider interested in sibling issues, but not interested in running a Sibshop, the first day of training is for you! You’ll hear from a panel of sibs about their unique concerns and talk about what parents and service providers can do to address sibling issues. Participants will hear poignant stories, share laughs, meet courageous sibs, and learn practical advice.
The second day is for Facilitators-in-training only! Don will guide Facilitators through a 4 hour workshop with 12-15 local youth volunteers.
The two-day training is February 22-23, 2013, 9:00am-3:30pm at Child Focus in Eastgate (551 Old State Route 74, Cincinnati, Ohio 45244). The two-day Sibshop Facilitator training is $110 and each individual day is $60. To register online for the training, go to: http://conta.cc/T5dgzw or for more information, call Melanie Reccia at 752-1555
