 What are the Thin Within support groups?
Thin Within support groups are a provided to give each participant tangible encouragement and motivation for their journey through the program. Anyone that is interested can start a TW Support group and invite others to attend. The group is designed to provide accountability and support to people participating in the Thin Within program, and also to share with non-participants what Thin Within is all about. Through video testimony, discussion, personal sharing, and prayer, our hope is that people can embrace the abundant life promised in John 10:10. For people studying Thin Within without a support group in their area, we also offer online support groups.
Do I have to be a member of Thin Within to attend a support group?
No. The support groups are open to anyone who is interested in changing his or her life and embracing the abundant life promised to us in John 10:10, regardless of whether they are studying the program. However, to truly experience the core of Thin Within, you should study Thin Within's first quarter foundation material or at least read the Thin Within hardbound book.
Is support group attendance required if I join the Thin Within program?
Participants are not required to attend a support group, but attendance is highly recommended in order to reap the fullest benefits from the program.
Who runs the support groups?
People just like you. Support groups are led by volunteers who have an interest helping others with food issues and heightening their own accountability.
Can I receive something to help run my support group?
Yes! You can contact us if you would like to start a group. There are four kits and each kit should last 3-4 months. The kit includes a video, a facilitation packet and promotional material. The video has 12 segments on it, with each segment being 15 minutes in duration. We recommend you show the video at the beginning of the support group and leave time for discussion afterwards. If discussion is slow after the video segment, you can refer to your facilitation packet which contains summaries and starter questions that go with each video segment. With the facilitation packet, you will be equipped to foster discussion in your group. Finally, the promotional material (brochures and posters) will help you "get the word out" about your support group in your church and community.
Do I have to run my support group on a specific day of the week?
It's up to you. The location, time and duration of support group meetings are left up to the discretion of the individual support group leaders. We recommend that, if possible, the meetings be held at a consistent interval (i.e. weekly on Monday at 7:00pm) so members can plan ahead and easily work the meetings into their schedules.
What would the format be of a typical support group session?
There is no "required" format for the support group sessions. We suggest that each support group begin with the provided video segment (approximately 15 minutes in length) that is testimonial in nature and consists of real people sharing their struggles and triumphs as they work through the Thin Within principles and experience the non-diet approach. Following the video segment, group members are free to discuss what they heard on the video and how God is working in their own lives. By using this format, it is our desire to see each individual encouraged and supported in his or her quest to find the abundant life. The length of each session is also up to the support group leader, but should be no fewer than 30 minutes and no longer than 90 minutes in length.
How do I start a support group?
It's easy! Just click here or click on the "Start a Support Group!" link on the front page of the website. Fill out the online form (required) and purchase a support group kit if you think you will need one. We will get you on our map of support groups as well as introduce you to a Support Group Manager who will support with your group.
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