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For the skills to be effective in stopping the dropout track, reclaiming members
who have left and retaining new members, they must become normal 'unconscious'
behaviour. This is a two stage process.

Stage 1 is for a minimum of 10% of the congregation to be trained in the skills.
Stage 2 is to achieve individual "integration" of the skills over time through
personal practice and ongoing participation in Support Groups.

STAGE 1
The most effective way to introduce Every One Counts to a congregation is through the (free) Introductory (mini) Workshop. It is vital! Without this step, congregational leaders and others will struggle to understand the significance of Lab I to their future and therefore not commit time or resources to undertake the training. Where people have a chance to experience an Introductory workshop, they invariably will want to attend a Lab I, despite the time commitment necessary - without it, they will not. This is one of hurdles to the programme implemented by congregations. This is emphasised to all trainers.

The course can be run in a variety of formats to suit each congregation. Five day, Two weekends (Fri night, Saturday, Sunday), three weekends (Fri night, Saturday), Week nights (3 hour sessions), in weekly Modules or any combination of those to suit church programs.

STAGE 2
This is where the skills learnt, are practiced until they become integrated into the person's normal behaviour. That is, that they no longer have to think about how to listen effectively, the new skills come naturally. The best way of achieving this is to be part of a Support Group. Our Support groups are groups of up to six people, who meet on a regular basis (usually monthly) for debriefing of visits they have made, coaching in skill development, and nurture. To facilitate groups, we have available a Support Group Leader's Manual which outlines twelve sessions. Only one Support Group Leader's manual is needed per congregation. See our "Resources" page in this website.

Support Groups are a vital part of successfully integrating the skills and conducting a sustained programme of outreach to inactive members. The programme will struggle to survive without them.

PRACTICAL ISSUES

The cost can be met by subsidy from the local congregation, individual contribution, fundraising etc. The cost is kept to a minimum because LEAD see it as a ministry and service to the church. People pay for what they value. If some consider the minimal cost to be too high, the issue may be one of needing to increase the vision and motivation to engage in this life-changing experience.