Become a Scleroderma
Support Group Leader
Are you interested in helping scleroderma patients connect with one another and build a strong community? Then join us in becoming a support group leader!
Why Become a Support Group Leader?
Are you passionate about helping scleroderma patients connect and thrive? Becoming a support group leader is an incredible opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others while growing personally and professionally.
1. Build a Stronger Community
Support group leaders bring people together, creating a safe and welcoming space where patients, caregivers, and loved ones can share their experiences, find encouragement, and develop meaningful connections.
2. Empower Others
As a leader, you’ll inspire hope and strength in others facing the challenges of scleroderma. Your role can help group members navigate their journey with confidence and access valuable resources.
3. Develop New Skills
Comprehensive training is provided, so no prior experience is necessary! You’ll learn essential skills like facilitation, communication, and resource navigation, all of which can benefit you in other areas of your life.
4. Gain Personal Fulfillment
There’s nothing more rewarding than knowing you’ve helped someone feel less alone. As a support group leader, you’ll make a lasting impact on individuals while fostering your own sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Start Your Journey Today
Will there be training?
We make sure you have the training you need through a comprehensive training program hosted by SPIN, the Scleroderma Patient-centered Intervention Network. The SPIN-SSLED program is a 13-week online training program there to provide leaders with the information and resources to help them feel more comfortable, confident, and supported in their roles, which will contribute to a more positive support group experience.
What is the time commitment?
We ask leaders to:
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Host a 1-hour meeting (usually monthly).
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Send follow-up emails to update your group and maintain consistent communication.
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Dedicate additional time for planning and responding to group members’ questions or concerns.
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Participate in a 13-week training program and an annual support group leader meeting thereafter.
What skills or qualifications are you looking for?
We’re looking for individuals who are:
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Good communicators to moderate meetings effectively.
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Skilled in conflict resolution to navigate sensitive topics.
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Positive and empathetic with a genuine desire to support others.
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Organized and responsive to keep the group running smoothly.
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As a representative of the Scleroderma Foundation, professionalism is key.
Are meetings online or in-person?
Currently, most of our support groups meet online, making them accessible to more people. However, there’s an opportunity to host in-person meetings if there’s enough interest in your area and you’re willing to commit.
How will I answer medical questions if I am not a medical professional?
You don’t need to be a medical expert! Your role is to share trusted resources, facilitate discussions, and help group members feel supported. Any medical questions can be referred to our foundation or healthcare professionals.
I don’t know anyone with scleroderma in my area. How can I start?
Don’t worry! We’ll help get the word out about your group through our network, website, and social media channels. Our goal is to connect people in your area and beyond to ensure your group thrives. Online meetings also make it easy to connect with others who may not easily be within driving distance.
Support Group
Leadership Academy
This private space is just for SPIN-SSLED graduates—a fresh, inspiring hub for meaningful conversation, shared growth, and real talk about what it takes to lead a scleroderma support group.
No lectures—just real connection.
Each Academy session is an interactive group discussion focused on leadership and learning. You won’t be talked at—you’ll be part of the conversation.
Grow your skills and your confidence.
Swap ideas, share resources, and learn what’s working in other groups. Connect with a community of experienced scleroderma leaders from around the world who truly get what you do.
Stay connected between sessions.
Use this group to ask questions, get advice, celebrate wins, and support one another as leaders—anytime, from anywhere.
You’ve done the training—now let’s build the community. We’re so glad you’re here.
Sign Up and
Make a Difference
If you're ready to take the next step toward becoming a support group leader, fill out the application below and someone from our team will be in touch!