New parent support group to meet twice monthly

  • Published
  • By Mark Wyatt
  • 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – All parents here are welcome to attend a new parent-led support group that will meet twice a month at the Airman and Family Readiness Center in Building 1240.

Organizers hope the new group, called Operation Hanscom: Diaper Duty, will connect parents in the Hanscom community through common life situations, experiences and challenges.

“The benefits of joining a parent support group are many, but the best reason is to meet others just like themselves with similar challenges,” said Kathy Cipolla, the driving force behind the community initiative. “When families meet to discuss related concerns, there is a sense of community, of understanding.”

The group will meet the first Monday of every month from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and the third Monday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The group’s next meeting is Dec. 5 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Cipolla, who is a registered nurse with a certification in childbirth education, will mediate the group. Each meeting will have a set topic to guide the discussion.

“Whether new to the community, or you have been here for several years, we hope all parents come and participate,” said Cipolla, a parent to two teenage boys. “Come share ideas, concerns and information related to providing the best support and environment for our children.”

She added that parents are welcome to come and go as needed.

Dawn Shewmaker, Family Advocacy Program assistant, discussed how the support group fills a void that has been missing since a similar program managed through her office ended in 2010.

“Since we don’t have a New Parents Program anymore, this is an outstanding alternative for parents to network,” Shewmaker said. “The goal of the Family Advocacy Program is safe, healthy families; this ties in nicely with that.”

As the program develops, Cipolla would like to have local resource organizations provide information.

Parents are welcome to bring their lunch or dinner during the meetings.

Cipolla said that while children are welcome to attend, childcare is not provided.

For further information, contact the Family Advocacy Program at 781-225-6385, email Cipolla at kathycipolla@yahoo.com or visit the group’s Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/operationhanscomdiaperduty.