The Michigan LGBT Peer Support Network is a new group aimed at helping people in the LGBT community start support groups and build alliances.
"I didn't create the Network to compete with other organizations, but to give LGBT people more options," said Jeffrey Olivier, the group's founder. "I want to form groups that are not available to the community. In the near future, we have plans for a new men's group, lesbian group, newly single group and friends and family group just to name a few groups that are needed (that) we do not have. We'd also like to create a social meet up group where LGBT people can meet up and go out to dinner."
Currently the Network has two groups up and running, a weekly community chat that meets at the Java Hut in Ferndale on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and an LGBT and allies game night that takes place Mondays from 7 to 9 p.m., also at Java Hut.
In addition to the groups, Olivier has also created an online helpline of sorts.
"If you join the Michigan LGBT Peer Support Network Facebook page it acts as a helpline," Olivier said. "If you send a message seven days a week you can find resources in our community. I will answer every message."
For more information on the Michigan LGBT Peer Support Network, visit the group's Facebook page at gaybe.am/1B.
New Support Network Helps Peers in LGBT Community
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