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Peer Support
Peer support is one of the fundamentals of a CIL. Peer “mentors” provide role modeling and share experiences, feelings, and awareness of disability issues.
Through peer support there is a full exchange of brainstorming, problem solving, and sharing of concerns, successes and ways to address issues. The peer support relationship allows for the more experienced person to provide information and support and serve as a positive role model to the person whose disability might be new or more recent.
OSCIL holds several monthly peer support groups to provide individuals with similar issues a chance to talk about their own conditions, experiences and concerns. By talking with people who truly understand what they are going through, individuals can gain practical insights to maximize the potential for successful independent living.
In addition to monthly support groups, many OSCIL staff provide peer support in a number of areas, including but not limited to: visual and hearing impairments, arthritis, orthopedic issues, diabetes, and more. Please call the OSCIL office at 401-738-1013 for more information.
BIARI Brain Injury Support Group
This group is comprised of brain injury survivors, their families and friends, healthcare professionals, physicians, providers of brain injury rehabilitation, and other advocates.
The Brain Injury Association of Rhode Island Resource Center helps to improve access to information on brain injury, and to enhance the effectiveness of agencies and service providers who work with survivors. We work to expand services in Rhode Island for the care and rehabilitation of individuals who have sustained brain injuries by increasing the public’s awareness of brain injury and its consequences, developing support systems and by providing educational outreach to organizations, agencies, and community groups.
Deaf Peer Support Group
The Deaf Peer Support Group at OSCIL is a friendly and supportive space for individuals who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or Deaf-Blind to share their experiences and get advice on daily challenges, like accessing services and improving communication skills. It's a great way to connect with others, share resources, and learn new skills.
For more information, contact OSCIL via video phone at (401) 244-7792 or email margaret.molloy@oscil.org.
Peer Support Group
Our group at OSCIL is a welcoming space for adults with disabilities aged 25–35. Connect with others who understand your journey, share your experiences, and offer and receive encouragement. Together, we foster personal growth, learn new skills, and build lasting friendships.
For more information, call OSCIL at 401-738-1013 or email molly.smith@oscil.org.
Virtual Brain Injury Support Group
OSCIL's weekly Virtual Brain Injury Support Group is a safe and supportive space for individuals affected by brain injury. Facilitated by an OSCIL staff member with lived experience, this group offers a unique opportunity to connect, share experiences, and gain valuable insights from others who understand the journey. Whether you're seeking emotional support, practical advice, or simply a sense of community, this group is here to help.
Meetings are held every Tuesday from 10 AM to 11:30 AM (Eastern time) on Zoom. Participants can join from the comfort of their own homes, making it accessible to anyone, anywhere. For more information, call OSCIL at 401-738-1013 or email richard.muto@oscil.org.
Women with Disabilities Group
Women's Group is held on a monthly basis from OSCIL's Warwick Avenue office. It provides a safe space for Women living with disabilities to discuss issues impacting their lives, while also providing a sense of community and a support network. Each group is held on the first Tuesday of every month. The framework encompasses icebreaker questions, an activity and group discussion portion which is centered around participant's interests and feedback.
For more information, call OSCIL at 401-738-1013 or email heather.schey@oscil.org.
Youth Transition Support Group
Our youth peer support group is designed for young people with disabilities between the ages of 16 and 24. We meet on the last Tuesday of every month to provide a safe and supportive environment where individuals can connect with others who share similar experiences. Our group is led by trained facilitators who are dedicated to ensuring that everyone has a chance to be heard and supported. The group also offers many different fun outings and chances to learn while having fun, trying new things, and building camaraderie. Join us for our next meeting and experience the benefits of peer support firsthand.
For more information, call OSCIL at 401-738-1013 or email info@oscil.org.