Supportive group action for women: a self-help strategy.
A major goal of the demonstration project described was to test a model of self-help and voluntary support in developing groups for female single parents. Community meetings, study programs, and related experiential strategies were used to promote coping skills and strategies; access to resources; decision-making learning and responsibility; social contacts and networking; work skills and employment opportunities. The effectiveness of the model, which emphasized self-help, consumer power, and accessibility, was reflected in increased membership, self-awareness and confidence, leadership, employment and development of community resources. Initial individual contact, informal contracting, and community support were seen as important factors in the project's success.
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009674:Nova Scotia; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012657:Self-Help Groups / Q000458:organization & administration*; D012931:Social Environment; D012944:Social Support; D014930:Women