We’ve been absolutely rolling when it comes to setting up and implementing virtual chapters — in large part, thanks to our TOPS members, who are willing to take the leap/lead the group/etc.!
Related: Could a virtual chapter be right for you?
And well, I thought I’d tell you about a new virtual chapter, or VC, that we’re hoping to get off the ground: One specifically for men.
The effort is being led by one of our members, Joe Schafer, who started as a big fan of online meetings led by TOPS facilitator Jim Parker.
Joe said he “absolutely cherishes (Jim) and that group of people” (who meet on Tuesdays), but he was interested in taking a leap on the VC format. So that’s exactly what he did.
Joe also wants to make it clear: If you’re a man in TOPS who’s attending the bigger online group, or you’re happy with your in-person option, he’s not trying to “poach” you! 😉 If you’re content, we’re oh-so glad to hear that.
But perhaps if there are any men out there in TOPS world who aren’t as engaged as they’d like to be, or maybe they aren’t as involved as they were in years past … this might be a fun option! It is true that men sometimes have different health considerations, or might go about things in their own way.
Joe’s been instrumental in helping to get the “Men in TOPS” channel, in Discord, off the ground, as well.
So even if you don’t want to join the men’s VC officially, you could always chat with other men in there.
Obviously, anyone interested in the VC itself would have to be a current TOPS member, and transfer his membership type, or join, if it’s a newcomer we’re hoping to snag. TOPS doesn’t let you belong to multiple chapters.
Anyway, Joe’s group meets online at 8 p.m. EST on Thursdays. If you have any questions, you’re welcome to email me with your inquiries, or Joe himself, as he’s the chapter leader: joeschafer@outlook.com
Now you know! 🙂
(Wouldn’t it be fun if we could get another one of these off the ground? A group for people doing keto, or intermittent fasting, or maybe those living with Type 2 diabetes?)
SO many options. Have a nice weekend!
That is awesome !!!! Some other great ideas too Michelle.
Thanks, Tamson!
Basing a chapter of TOPS (either in-person or on-line) on following Keto or intermittent fasting fads forgets what the S in TOPS stands for.
Let’s keep to the sensible ways that have brought about weight loss for thousands of members for more than 60 years.
Hi Lu, I do agree with your overall message, but you never know what’s working well for others, or what might be considered “sensible” to someone else. I spoke with a woman recently who has diabetes, and swears by keto. It’s done wonders for her, so you just never know.
How are you weighing in??
How do Weigh ins work