Support Groups
Fat Positive Support Group
Kinship | Empowerment | Liberation
Find Your People!
The Fat Positive Support Group is a space for fat folx longing to connect with those who have shared lived experiences, with a focus toward Kinship, Empowerment & Liberation.
This group is for individuals that are familiar with topics such as fat liberation, food relationship, non-diet approach, diet culture, weight inclusivity and anti-fatness. The purpose of this group is to create a place for people to build community.
In this group, you can expect to:
Meet people who are on a similar journey
Feel seen and heard in your experience
Experience fat joy in a supportive community
Further learning with subject matter experts with their own lived experience
Fat Positive Support Group is for people who:
Identify as fat and have experienced systemic discrimination. Some examples of systemic discrimination may include:
trouble finding clothes in-store in your size
experienced medical fat phobia
been afraid to go someplace due to being unsure if the seating will accommodate your body,
Have activities they’ve always wished to do but have been holding back due to real and perceived limitations of their body
Live in Edmonton or surrounding areas
Are able to attend in-person sessions once per month
Desire connection with those with common lived experiences
Have already started on their fat liberation journey
Are ready to put their learning about food & body into practice
Meet Your Facilitators
Jennifer Gray
She/Her | Location: Edmonton, AB
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Born and raised in Edmonton Alberta, Jenn’s life experiences have inspired a deep passion for all social justice movements. As someone who has been fat for most of their life, and who has experienced first hand the harm caused by fatphobia, Jenn is committed to advocating for body liberation, and to dismantling oppressive systems rooted in racism and colonialism.
Through her work as the creator of Fat Magick, Jenn has presented workshops, co-facilitated an anti-diet book club, and provided education to youth on topics such as body neutrality and self-actualization. As a Mother to a young daughter, Jenn believes that her most important role is that of a good future ancestor, and she uses that vision to continue to strive for a better world, and liberation for all.
Outside of advocacy work, Jenn loves spending time in Edmonton’s beautiful river valley with her daughter and husband, feeding the people she loves, snuggling her kitten Rue, and buying new books to put on her ever-growing “to read” list.
Erin Nelson, RD
She/Her | Location: Edmonton, AB
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Erin graduated from the University of Alberta in 2019 and started her career in Chronic Disease Management, providing one-on-one counselling and group education to people living with Diabetes. She has been in private practice for 4 years to allow her the flexibility to practice in a weight inclusive, non-diet environment. In 2022 Erin completed the training required and is now a Certified Intuitive Eating Counsellor.
Weight is not a good indicator of health and Erin has whole-heartedly adopted this as one of her core values. Erin finds the best way to support her clients on their journey, is to meet them where they are at and walk alongside them. Both the client and practitioner have valuable information to bring to the table and changes can only be made in collaboration.
When not supporting clients at TNC, Erin can usually be found curled up with a good book and a cup of coffee or camping with her wonderful partner and 2 amazing kids.
What’s Included
Monthly live sharing circle (2hours, in-person)
Curated resource library consisting of books, podcasts, articles & videos
Quarterly guest speaker
Quarterly meetups for a group activity in Edmonton
Secure group chat (24/7) with community members
All live sessions are led by Jenn and Erin
Frequently Asked Questions
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The first two months of the quarter will focus on a different chosen topic, with a focus on questions from group members. This is a space to share stories and experiences with other fat folx. Every third month, we will welcome a guest speaker either virtually or in-person to discuss their chosen topic. The last month of the quarter will be all about choosing an activity as a group and getting out into the community to try something fun together!
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This membership is for individuals that are familiar with topics such as fat liberation, food relationship, non-diet approach, diet culture, weight inclusivity and anti-fatness. The purpose of this membership is to create a place for people to build community. Once you sign up you will receive a resource library to further support your learning.
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Unfortunately, virtual sessions are not recorded to respect each individual’s privacy. If you are unable to attend a session (in-person or virtual) please email your facilitator as soon as possible.
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Yes, equity pricing is available for those in financial need, particularly those with marginalized identities. The equity price for this group is $225 ($56.25/mo).
Still have questions? Let’s connect.
Participant Reflections*
*Previous participants have provided consent for us to share these reflections.
"This group was the first time I have felt 100% comfortable in my skin. I didn’t have a twist of anxiety about my body when entering the space."
"[Jenn and Erin] are fantastic facilitators and are a great team; it’s nice to have individuals with lived experience and professional knowledge to provide both structure and safety."
"I enjoyed the outing a lot ... It gave us time to see what it would feel like to hang out outside of circling and discussions. To build friendships with people doing regular things. And to take up space!"
Support Group Details
DETAILS
4 month cycle, with the option to renew
All meet-ups in-person in Edmonton, AB
October 10th, November 21st, December 12th, January 9th 6pm - 8pm MST
Maximum 15 participants per group
$75/month*
*Price in Canadian dollars