West Suburban Divorce Support Group

Whether you are already divorced, going through a divorce, or considering one, this group is for you.

The West Suburban Divorce Support Group exists to provide emotional support, friendship, and shared understanding during a major life transition. Participants connect with others who face similar challenges and share experiences that help make sense of the emotions involved.

This is a peer-led support group. We are not counselors or attorneys, and nothing shared during meetups should be viewed as professional advice. We are not a dating meetup. Though we do not encourage forming relationships, we do not frown upon them either, as long as all parties are consenting.

We plan to host one primary meetup each month where participants gather for a meal, build connections, and discuss their experiences. These meetings focus on support, reflection, and healing during the divorce process.

We will also organize additional social gatherings such as bowling, movies, live music, or dancing. These events give attendees an opportunity to get out, reconnect socially, and take a break from the stress many experience during this time.

If you are reading this, you have already taken the first step. Consider joining the group and attending a meetup.

If you join and later decide you are not ready to attend, you are welcome to return whenever the time feels right.

By joining the group, you acknowledge that you have read, understand and agree to the following Participation Agreement:

Purpose of the Group: This group exists to provide a respectful peer discussion environment for individuals experiencing or recovering from divorce or separation. The group is intended for mutual support and shared experiences among participants. This group is not therapy, counseling, legal advice, or financial advice.

Voluntary Participation: Participation in this group and all related events is voluntary. Participants assume responsibility for their own decisions, actions, and personal well-being. When food or beverages are available, each participant pays their own check. Ordering food or beverages is optional.

No Professional Services: 1.) Organizers and facilitators are not acting as therapists, attorneys, financial advisors, or medical professionals. Any information shared by participants represents personal opinions and experiences only. Participants should seek qualified professional advice for legal, medical, financial, or mental health matters. 2.) Organizer(s) has no obligation to screen personal information, age, criminal history or divorce status, no control over personal or confidential information being shared and no responsibility for conduct of others.

Assumption of Risk: Participants acknowledge that discussions involving divorce and personal relationships may involve emotional topics. By attending an event, participants voluntarily assume all risks associated with:
• Participation in group discussions
• Interactions with other participants
• Attendance at meeting locations
• Personal decisions made as a result of discussions

Code of Conduct: Participants agree to:
• Treat all members respectfully
• Maintain confidentiality of personal information shared in meetings
• Avoid harassment, threats, or abusive behavior
• Avoid giving legal, medical, or therapeutic advice
• Refrain from disruptive or aggressive conduct
• Refrain from solicitation of any type

Release of Liability: To the fullest extent permitted by law, participants agree to release and hold harmless the group organizers, facilitators, hosts, and volunteers from any claims, damages, injuries, or liabilities arising out of or related to participation in the group, attendance at events, or interactions with other participants.

Indemnification: Participants agree to indemnify and hold harmless the organizers, facilitators, and volunteers from any claims, damages, losses, or expenses, including legal fees, arising from their conduct, actions, or interactions with other participants during or related to group activities.

Alcohol and Personal Responsibility: If events occur in venues where alcohol is available, participants are responsible for their own decisions regarding alcohol consumption and transportation.

Agreement: By joining this Meetup group or attending an event, participants acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agreed to this charter and participation agreement. The West Suburban Divorce Support Group reserves the right to remove any participants from the group without explanation to that participant.