Frequently Asked Questions
About NORM Southern California

What really goes on at NORM meetings?

Our meetings are pretty much as described on the meeting schedule page: we share and discuss the latest news and information regarding foreskin restoration and circumcision. On occasion we have a guest speaker present to tell us about his (or, on rare occasions, her) own experiences and involvement in these issues.

We often try to include a summary of what is discussed each month on our Meeting Notes page.

In discussing certain techniques or concepts, it is sometimes easier to show than to try and explain without visual references. We have a small library of visual materials available during the meetings, and occasionally one of us will show everyone his progress or technique. We do not, however, sit around and openly tug our skins en masse. At the beginning of each meeting we make it clear that NORM is neither for sexual conduct nor is it a dating service.

It's also important to maintain some sense of humor about this unusual business of taping up and strapping down our penises. Our meetings always include a healthy measure of laughter and joking.

I already have information about restoring. Why should I come to a NORM meeting?

Although you can find instructions and everything you need to know on the internet, the process of foreskin restoration can be frustrating at times without the encouragement and support of others. NORM was originally founded to provide that support.

NORM meetings offer a chance to discuss restoration with others face-to-face. While it's quite possible to communicate with fellow restorers via email or online chatting, it's not quite the same as being able to talk to someone about it. Peer support can also be more rewarding and effective in a group setting, which that isn't always available online.

We presently maintain a small library of devices, literature, audio and video material related to foreskin restoration and circumcision issues. This resource is available to anyone attending our meetings. Many new restorers have found it helpful to be able to get their hands on a device to see if it's worth purchasing one for themselves. Other supplies such as tape or weights are available for demonstrating the various do-it-yourself methods.

Attending a NORM meeting for the first time can be an intimidating experience - we too were all beginners at one point, and we remember how difficult it was to enter a room full of strangers to talk about this stuff. We also know how empowering it is to be surrounded by men who know and understand the desire to restore.

How long do the meetings last?

Our meetings usually run around two hours. It's not unusual, however, for several guys to hang around afterwards. Our meeting center may allow us to remain in the room for a while, if no other group is scheduled, and attendees have been known to stay and chat in the building's lobby or outside in the parking lot (so as not to disturb other groups at our meeting center).

Does it cost anything?

There are no fees or membership dues involved. However, toward the end of the meeting we pass a basket around the room and ask for contributions. This money goes toward expenses such as renting the room we use each month. Any donations to NORM are tax deductible, as we are a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization.

What if I need more help?

We understand that discussing the subject only once a month just isn't enough. Other websites may maintain forums and chat rooms devoted to restoration; some are linked from our message boards page. Feel free to contact our coordinator for any additional information or support.

I don't live in Los Angeles! Is there another group in my area?

There are many branches of NORM across the United States and around the world; you can check NORM's website, or view our links page for a partial list. If you don't find one listed near you, write to info@norm.org for information on possibly starting a group in your area.

There may also be foreskin restoration support groups not affiliated with NORM, organized by word or mouth or through other websites. You may also find other restorers in your area through the various message boards linked from our site.