Parents without Partners
From LoveToKnow Dating
Being a single parent without a partner is difficult. That is why Parents Without Partners (PWP) was created back in 1957. Even though there are many more single parents today than there was 50 years ago, society is still more setup for couples. PWP understands this. By getting involved with PWP, you will find the support you need for yourself and your children. And along the way, you may even meet someone to share your life with.
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What Is Parents Without Partners
Parents Without Partners is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve the lives of single parents and their children. This is done through the resources and activities available at nearly 200 local chapters worldwide.
Who Can Join
All men and women who are single parents are welcome to join. And it doesn’t matter how you became a single parent—you can be separated, divorced, widowed or never married. You don’t even need custody of your children to qualify. How long you have been a single parent is unimportant as well. Waiting to join only delays the support you will receive.
Typically Members
- Members range in age from 18 to 80.
- Nearly 85 percent are separated or divorced.
- Members have children of all ages, including grown children.
- They come from all occupations and educational backgrounds.
- All religions and political parties are represented.
Most important, everyone who joins has their single-parenthood verified, so you can take comfort in knowing that everyone you meet understands what you are going through.
Not a Dating Organization
Parents Without Partners was not designed to be a dating organization. But since it’s a place where adults with a common situation gather, it can be an excellent place to make a friend—and maybe even find a new love.
Dating as a single parent is definitely not easy. Finding the time and energy to meet people is hard. Even after finding someone, the challenges remain. If asked out on a date for Friday night, you first have to see if your babysitter is available. And your date, if he or she isn’t a parent also, may not understand why you have to cancel or leave early when something happens to your child.
Maybe you have also tried the online dating scene. But it’s very frustrating when someone doesn’t communicate with you after finding out you have a child. The discrimination is discouraging to say the least.
You won’t have these problems when meeting people at Parents Without Partners. Everyone there has experienced the same difficulties as you and understands that your children must come first.
How to Join PWP
You first have to decide what kind of membership you want. Your choices are:
- Chapter Membership
- Member-at-Large
Joining a local chapter is your best option if one is available in your area. If you don’t live near a chapter, or if you travel often, then becoming a member-at-large allows you to enjoy most of the benefits of membership.
The annual cost of a local membership is typically between $20 and $40. Member-at-Large memberships cost $40.
Find a Local Chapter
On the Parents Without Partners website, click the ‘Find a Chapter’ link on the left side of the page. Use the drop down menu to choose your state and then click on the ‘Start Search’ button.
The mailing address, phone number, and website address for each chapter in your state is listed. Visit the website of your local chapter to learn more about the activities and support available there.
When you are ready to join, call the local chapter, and they will let you know how to get started.
Available Activities
Each chapter will provide opportunities in the following three areas:
- Educational Activities
- These can include discussion topics, guest speakers, and training seminars designed to help you become a better parent
- Family Activities
- Bring your children along to enjoy such things as dinners, camping trips, and evenings of fun
- Adult Social/Recreational Activities
- This is a great way to meet the other parents in a relaxed atmosphere
Conclusion
As a single parent, you may feel lonely and isolated. You don’t have to be alone anymore. Join your local Parents Without Partners chapter today.
Learn More
This page has been accessed 857 times. This page was last modified 07:06, 10 February 2007.
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