PARENTS OF ALLERGIC CHILDREN – SUPPORT GROUP GUIDELINES

Parents of Allergic Children is a support group designed to bring people together to discuss and exchange information with the intention of supporting parents who are actively seeking a means of providing optimal health for their children.  Our group does not assume that there is no cure for our children, and we believe that if given access to the latest information in all areas of health care we can make informed decisions that will ensure our children reach their individual optimal health. We focus on providing optimum nutrition, which includes, but is not limited to, diet modification.  We know that achieving this goal is often a long, arduous road for both the child and parents, and therefore believe that one of our main goals is to support the parent/s. 

Many parents have experienced dramatic positive results, and can therefore provide other parents with mutual support as they venture on their own journey.  No two children are alike, and it cannot be assumed that a cure for one child is a cure for another child, and therefore we do not claim to have all the answers.  We actively encourage parents to research the issues, ask questions, and discuss their concerns with their healthcare professionals and the group, while providing feedback for others.  It is essential that parents make informed decisions and act on them in a responsible manner.  

 We firmly believe that our focus is on learning and finding ways to help and improve the lives of our children, not into fighting the schools or any other legal or political matters.  Many of our parents are actively involved in advocacy groups outside Parents of Allergic Children, and we strongly encourage them to continue to do so.  However, PAC is not a forum for such advocacy or recruitment.  Furthermore, we do not endorse products or services; we do not enter into business agreements with any companies; nor do we support any political organizations or advocacy groups.  We are a self-funded, non-profit organization, and we strongly discourage solicitation, both internally and externally.   

PAC provides members with a Phone Tree, which is a list of contact information for those who are active members of this organization.  Inclusion in the Phone Tree is optional, and members can ask not to be included, or they can remove themselves at anytime.  Furthermore, PAC board members reserve the right to remove the name of any member of the group at any time if they deem actions of that member to be against the guiding principals of the group, or if that person is deemed not to be an active member.   

The Phone Tree is for member use only, and is to be used as a vehicle for exchanging information, clarifying information, sending reminders of our meetings and speakers, and offering mutual support.  Any member who uses the Phone Tree to actively solicit products or promote advocacy or political groups will have their information removed immediately.  We request that any information sent through the Phone Tree be reviewed by the board members and approved before distribution.  We strongly encourage members to inform board members if they receive any inappropriate or offensive material from others.   

We trust that all members understand that our group is one of support for all children and parents, and we hope that everyone will help us maintain the soul and integrity of our organization.