Powerful Tool for Caregivers Classes:

I attended a class as an employee of Northwood’s but since I have been a caregiver for years that was my focus. I was impressed with our staff, they are so caring and knowledgeable! What I learned how important it is to share your story, I realized how healing it was and that others in the group experienced the same feelings. The support I felt was overwhelming. I learned some techniques that will help me in the future. I was so thankful that I attended and would recommend it to all caregivers! Don’t go through it alone!

The Value of a Caregiver Support Group

One of the greatest challenges of being a caregiver is taking care of one’s own emotional and physical health.

All caregivers who feel stressed, confused, overwhelmed, depressed, or burned out would benefit from a caregiver support group. Studies show that support groups have a significant positive effect on caregivers’    well-being, depression, and feeling of burden.

Attending a caregiver support group is an effective way to reduce stress because you get a chance to vent to people who truly understand, get useful advice, and find out about helpful local resources.

Northwoods Caregivers offers monthly support groups in the Bemidji and Blackduck areas.

Please call Jenn at 218-333-8097 or Karen at 218-333-8098 for more information.

All support groups are confidential, free of charge and require no          pre-registration. Come as you are.

*”Before I started attending this support group, I felt that I was all alone in my troubles. I had no idea that many others find themselves in the caregiving role. It’s wonderful to connect with people who understand” Jill – Bemidji

“ I have made many new friends through my support group, I’m not alone. The group has also provided many resources that have helped me navigate the next steps”  Burton - Bemidji

First City

I am privileged to work in the First City program. I have been doing First City for 2 years and have witnessed successful unification of non-custodial parents and their children. I have witnessed many families who are reunited, have successful visits and get custody back of their child/children.

One in particular did not see his children for 2 years. He started supervised visitation and worked his way to getting joint custody of his children. First City offers a safe, judgement free, playful environment for the parent and child.

We strive to make the child as comfortable as possible with a room full of toys to play with, coloring books, dominos, Lego's and several games and books to read and learn.  I am grateful for this experience.

"Anonymous"

What does it mean to be a volunteer?

Visiting with Marilyn a volunteer driver since Nov. of 2022, she shared what it means to her.

She was helping “Jim” for over a year, that is what brought her to Northwoods Caregivers as a volunteer.   Jim requested that Marilyn be his driver as they had built that relationship. In her words “it’s the Joy of being around people and helping as much as I can. Taking care of our elders with love and respect." She stated they have built a relationship as they visit on the phone since Jim does not have family in the area. 

“Misty” commented about Tai Ji Quan: The slow movement connected with breathing, and needing to think about what was coming next. This helps with both relaxation and mental sharpness at the same time.