<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>>

In response to Michael's question why a group should join with
a national celiac support group, I offer the following.

BENEFITS OF GROUP MEMBERSHIP IN CSA/USA, INC.

Access to:
? "Chapter "Guidelines" (suggestions for organizing and running a
support group).
? Listing of your group with CSA/USA to get direct referrals from CSA
and other
support groups.
? Access to CSA members in your zip code area; CSA will send your letter
to the
area's celiacs telling them about your chapter.
? More credibility as an official CSA Chapter or Resource Unit within
your city's medical
community.
? Willingness of other CSA leaders to give direct assistance and access
to their
special lists of contacts in your area.
? Encouragement by CSA leaders for leaders of chapters and resource
units, as
well as members, to attend the national annual conference, attending
any training sessions and region sessions to acquire more information and
helpful hits in coping with the gluten-free lifestyle.
? Encouragement by CSA for officers and members to write interesting
articles
for LIFELINE to share. The Executive Director is the editor of this
publication.
? Rebate to chapters for CSA members within their zip code area.


What Does It Take To Have a Great Support Group?; - An interested,
active and
informed membership. All leaders have individual talents to bring to the
support group. There is no one "right way" to lead a support group.
Strengthen good leadership qualities by developing and exhibiting these
characteristics.

? Loyalty (Commitment to the work of CSA/USA and your chapter)
? Understanding (Articulate the vision and purposes of CSA. Apply and teach
the clinical celiac diet.
? Listening (Listen to members' stories. Tend to the concerns and
worries of each other.)
? Predictability (Stability in word and action)
? Creativity (Strive to develop novel solutions to problems; Be eager to
meet
people's needs in unique ways. Foster friendships and cohesiveness
within your membership.)
? Efficiency (Get things done fast and with little cost or aggravation.)
? Insightful (Be a team player with your fellow officers. Ask probing
questions and foster new perspectives.)
? Honesty (Be sure you deserve trust of your membership to represent the
organization.)
? Persistence (Attack problems with gusto and a positive attitude.)
? Practicality (Solution oriented to make things work.)
? Communicative (Shares progress, statistics and news with other
leaders, members and beyond.)
? Helpfulness (Lends a helping hand when the members & CSA need it.)
? Complementary (Complement the members and fellow officers whenever
possible; pick up the slack.)
? Cheerfulness (Always have a quick warm smile of welcome.)

Janet Y. Rinehat, Former President, CSA/USA, Inc.

*Please provide references to back up claims of a product being GF or not GF*