GREENFIELD — Members of the Greenfield chapter of Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) describe the nonprofit weight loss support group as being “like a family.”

One such participant is Linda Gonyer, who has been a member for 15 years. Before joining, she described herself as an “introvert.” But the sense of camaraderie she experienced with other TOPS members helped her settle in and feel comfortable.

“When I first joined … I was scared of my own shadow. I wouldn’t … raise my hand, I wouldn’t give any kind of input,” Gonyer recounted. “And now, I [present] quite often. It gave me the confidence I never had.”

Lenore Glaser, another participant, explained that TOPS is currently the only in-person weight loss support group in the area. Typically, roughly 20 to 25 people attend weekly meetings to record their weights, receive emotional support, and discuss exercise and nutrition.

“If people gained [weight], we say we’re glad you’re here,” Glaser explained. “We don’t want to put any pressure on anybody.”

Each week, a participant volunteers to present about a health topic — anything from diabetes to food groups to the complex emotions associated with weight loss. Glaser noted that she and her husband, both teachers, love to present, and that she recently presented about the pros and cons of different yogurts.

Additionally, the group offers weight loss contests, where participants can give a dollar to participate. The person who loses the most weight keeps all the money contributed to the pool.

“It keeps it fun,” Glaser said.

Glaser mentioned that TOPS is distinct from other weight loss organizations because as a nonprofit, it is not trying to sell its participants certain products or plans. Participants are welcome to make their own choices about diet and exercise, and come to meetings to receive education and support.

Once a participant loses the weight recommended by her or his physician, they are considered “KOPS,” which stands for Keeping Off Pounds Sensibly. KOPS continue to attend meetings to get support with maintaining their body weight and support others in reaching their goals.

Carolyn Pollard joined TOPS more than 20 years ago after successfully losing weight, but struggling to keep it off. She lost the recommended weight in her first year.

“The reason I love TOPS so much — they gave me something that was missing inside of me,” Pollard said. “It made me strong, it made me want to help others. Their program is beyond great.”

Pollard, who never graduated from high school, said that the “graduation” ceremony she had upon reaching her weight loss goal was a moving experience.

“When I became a KOP, [I got] a graduation. And [I got] to wear a white gown and a cap,” Pollard said. “It was the best experience of my life. They made [me] feel important. And for me, I really accomplished something. … I feel very proud of being a KOP. I feel very proud of belonging to the organization.”

The group will host an open house on Wednesday, Aug. 28, at 9:30 a.m. at the Greenfield Moose Lodge at 20 School St. Those who are interested in joining can learn more about the nonprofit. TOPS welcomes participation from men, women, and children ages 7 and up.

More information about TOPS can be found at tops.org.