Starting a CISM organization

[mariann6]

Recently, I was assigned the task of starting a CISM organization in my region. Unfortunately, I know nothing about CISM, let alone how to structure such a group. (Yes, I'm crazy, but someone had to do it!)

Would anyone be willing to share with me how their CISM group is organized and how it functions? Would anyone share their policies/procedures/by-laws? I really don't want to re-invent the wheel if I don't have to.

There are already people trained in CISD in my region and there is something of a CISM group here, but it isn't a stable entity. My task is to bring structure and organization to the people that are already here and then develop and expand the group into a fully functioning, cohesive team.

I would love any advise, suggestions, etc. For the welfare of the emergency services agencies in my area, I need to make this work.

Thanks

[mikeyboy411]

mariann6,

I am a CISM member of a Team that is currently being developed and finalized.

This website will help you A LOT.....

http://icisf.org/

It's from the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation that was started by Drs. Everly and Mitchell. From here you can order "Establishing and Maintaining Peer Support Programs in the Workplace" 3rd edition (Robyn Robinson & Patricia Murdoch). This book helps to explain the Nature and History of Peer Support, Key Philosophies, Establishing Programs, Selecting and Training of Peers, Running Programs on a Daily Basis, Peer Support in Major Emergencies, Costing and Budget and Program Evaluation.

My suggestion is to use the website to find a local CISM Individual and Group Intervention Class and attend it. It will serve as a HUGE eye-opener to how important this Program is.

Feel free to pick my brain more if you need more help.

[mikeyboy411]

Here is a SOG/SOPs that I have. I tried to send it as a P.M. but I can't figure-out how to attach a document in the P.M.

Let me know if there is anything else you need help with. I also have a SOG from the local County FD but can't send it here because of the size. Send me a P.M. with an email address and I'll get it to ya.....

As our CISM Individual/Group Interventions Instructor told us "just do the work....."