Introduction

Can this group help me get into school?

It’s not always easy to get an education, but this self-reliance group will help you learn the best way to get the education you need for better work. In group meetings, you will commit to do specific actions, and the group will give you ideas and encouragement. The goal of this group is not only to help you prepare for and succeed in your education; it is also to help you act in greater obedience and faith in the Lord and receive His promised blessings of temporal and spiritual self-reliance.

What is a self-reliance group?

A self-reliance group is different from most Church classes, lessons, and workshops. There are no teachers, leaders, or trainers. Members of the group learn together and support and encourage one another. We hold each other accountable for our commitments, and we counsel together to solve problems.

“There is no problem in the family, ward, or stake that cannot be solved if we look for solutions in the Lord’s way by counseling—really counseling—with one another.”

M. Russell Ballard, Counseling with Our Councils, rev. ed. (2012), 4

What do group members do?

At meetings, group members commit to act. We not only learn but also do the things that make us self-reliant. We make commitments, help each other keep those commitments, and report our progress. Because the group works as a council, it is important to attend meetings regularly and be on time. Always bring this workbook and the booklets My Foundation: Principles, Skills, Habits and My Path to Self-Reliance. Each group meeting will take about two hours. Acting on our commitments will take one to two hours per day.

What does a facilitator do?

Facilitators are not experts in education or teaching. They do not lead or teach the group. They simply help the group follow the materials exactly as they are written. A self-reliance specialist typically facilitates group meetings; however, group members may be assigned to facilitate after several weeks, if needed. To learn more, see the Leader Guide and accompanying videos at srs.lds.org.

Certificate of Completion

Group members who attend meetings and keep their commitments will qualify to receive a self-reliance certificate from LDS Business College. See page 29 in My Foundation for the requirements.