Being a survivor of child abuse can be difficult, and the effects can last a lifetime. That’s why Safe Passage for Children of Minnesota is proud to support an adult survivors peer support group. The group is currently welcoming new peer participants.
The peer-led group provides a safe, supportive space for adults ages 18 and older who experienced maltreatment during childhood. Survivors of physical abuse, sexual abuse, verbal abuse, emotional abuse or neglect are welcome. Participants at all stages of healing are encouraged to attend, whether they are newly beginning their healing journey or have been working through their experiences for many years. The group follows the guidelines of the national ASCA program.
Meetings are held online on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month from 7–8 p.m. CST. The drop-in format allows participants to attend as they are able.
The group is currently hoping to expand both its peer network and its team of volunteer facilitators in order to continue building a community of survivors for years to come.
Founding facilitator Karen Nestingen says the group can sometimes include up to a dozen peers and that many participants describe the experience as meaningful. For many survivors, connecting with others who share similar experiences can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide hope and understanding.
If you are interested, please email adscamn@gmail.com.