PEER SUPPORT GROUP

The Peer Support Group Committee serves to support those who are or know of individuals suffering with traumatic or acquired brain injuries (TBI/ABI). This is a safe space where individuals meet for an hour bimonthly (every other week on Saturday at 2 PM ). There is a theme set for each meeting tailored towards the needs of those who attend. This helps guide conversations and create a supportive environment. We begin meetings by stating why everyone is present and to understand the history of each unique individual. This allows the committee to develop an understanding of what activities to host for those gathered. We also discuss topics such as weekly goals, how individuals are receiving help and how they can continue to grow. The Peer Support Committee is here to listen those who need a lending hand and help individuals get the support they need to lead a healthy life.

Currently, the meetings are held virtually on Zoom at the following link:

https://columbiacuimc.zoom.us/my/columbiasynapse

PEER BUDDY PROGRAM

Synapse's Buddy Program pairs individuals with brain injury and other invisible disabilities with Columbia student buddies who would keep them updated on available resources, notify them about Synapse events, and simply always be there-whether it be at social events or having a cup of coffee and a nice conversation.

Form to become a student buddy: https://forms.gle/Sd56FF3CCY9qSUyZ7

Form to become ABI buddy: https://forms.gle/dtobo9HisbpjvSup8

Humans with ABI (Acquired Brain Injury) PhotoBlog

This year, Columbia Synapse Operations is kicking off the Humans With Brain Injury initiative that will highlight the stories of individuals with brain injury/concussion. We would like you to share your experience with a brain injury/concussion or your story with a loved one who has a brain injury/concussion. Your story would be shared on the Synapse Instagram & Synapse Website, while respecting the level of anonymity you would prefer (picture with face covered, no name, etc.). This involves sharing your support systems and personal reflections on the recovery process to inspire and educate others about brain injury/concussion. Please let us know if you would like to be a part of this project by emailing cxs2002@columbia.edu.

Narrate: A Community Narrative Series

This project documents the experiences and challenges of persons with disabilities (or similar experiences/challenges) during the COVID-19 crisis. Please share your personal thoughts in a 100-word reflection on your experience. This is part of an effort to recognize the link between voice, identity, and community.

We hope to compile and share a collection of various experiences, including but not limited to, financial stressors and the psychological repercussions of isolation for this community, on our social media and website's blog. However, on the form, you will have the option of not sharing any personal identifiers if you wish to share your experience anonymously. 

Please share your personal thoughts in a 100-word reflection on your experience at this link: https://tinyurl.com/Columbia-Synapse-Narrate