On the journey of parenthood, it’s easy to feel isolated in the challenges we face. However, finding a community of parents and families who understand what you’re going through can be incredibly uplifting and supportive. In Vermont, there are numerous groups and organizations dedicated to bringing parents and caregivers together, fostering connections, and providing support in various ways. Whether you’re a new parent, an adoptive or guardianship family, or navigating treatment and recovery, there’s a community for you.
Lund Community Support Groups
Lund offers a variety of groups to support parents and families in their unique journeys:
- Richmond Playgroup: Co-sponsored with the Richmond Free Library, this free weekly playgroup provides a casual environment for families with children ages 0-5 to connect. Where: Richmond Free Library, When: Wednesdays, 10am-12pm.
- Residential Alumni Group: A weekly gathering for alumni from Lund’s Residential Treatment Program and outpatient clinical clients to build a recovery-focused community. Where: South Burlington, VT When: Tuesday mornings
- Life After Adoption Finalization Info Sessions: Hosted by Christina Shuma, these sessions offer insights into post-adoption contact and the Vermont Adoption Registry. Where: Zoom, When: 3rd Tuesday of each month, 12-1pm, Sign up: here.
- Reflections For Adoptive and Guardianship Families: Facilitated by Vermont Center for Children, Youth, and Family (UVM) and Lund Post Permanency, this group allows adoptive and guardianship parents to share experiences and learn together. Where: Virtual, When: One Tuesday each month, 12-1pm. To learn more or register, contact Mary Undercoffler at maryu@lundvt.org.
- Self-Care Support Group for Adoptive and Guardianship Caregivers: Focuses on self-care practices and discussions, meeting virtually once a month. For registration, email Kathy at kyanulav@gmail.com.
- Circle of Support for Adoptive and Guardianship Families: Join to share and learn with other adoptive and guardianship parents. Where: Virtual, When: second Wednesday of each month, 7-8:30 pm. To learn more, contact Stephanie Amyot at stephaniea@lundvt.org.
- Brattleboro Support Group for Adoptive and Guardianship Parents: An in-person group that follows a traditional support group format. Where: Brattleboro, When: 2nd Tuesday of the month, 5:30-7:30 pm. For more information: contact Su Lin Mangan at sulinm@lundvt.org.
- Adoptee Youth Group: A space for adoptees aged 11-16 to connect in person. Meetings are held once a month in Burlington. Contact Kailey Titus at kaileyt@lundvt.org for details.
Additional Family Resources
For those looking for additional ways to build community, check out these Vermont organizations dedicated to supporting families:
- Dad Guild: Dedicated to empowering fathers through connection, education, and community engagement. Visit their website.
- GROW: Offers wellness through yoga and fitness, childbirth education, doula support, support groups, and a community of kids’ classes. Locations in Richmond and Burlington. Learn more here.
- One Day in Vermont: Aims to foster community among Vermont families with a wealth of resources, supporting local businesses and family-friendly events. Explore their resources.
- Turning Point Center of Chittenden County Parents in Recovery: The Parents in Recovery Program carves out a safe, judgment-free space for parents, in recovery, to connect and bridge the gap between their sobriety and community. Learn more here.
- United Ways of Vermont 2-1-1: Provides a comprehensive range of information and referrals for parents, including support groups and playgroups. Check out Vermont 2-1-1.
Building a community around you and your family can significantly alleviate the feeling of loneliness that often accompanies parenthood. You can find a network of support, friendship, and resources tailored to your family’s needs through these groups and organizations. Whether it’s sharing experiences, seeking advice, or simply connecting with others who understand, these communities are here to support you every step of the way.
Check out all of Lund’s programs here, and contact us if you have questions about any of the Lund support groups.
