HAYDEN - Vicky Jones smiled Tuesday morning as she was recognized for a recent string of weekly weight-loss successes.

Jones, one of 32 members of the Hayden chapter of TOPS, or Take Off Pounds Sensibly, pointed across the room at another club member.

"You were my example," Jones said during the group's weekly meeting at Hayden Crossings Community Center. "You have been an inspiration for me."

That type of support is one of the founding principles of the TOPS program, which bills itself as "the original, nonprofit, weight-loss support and wellness education organization."

It's also one of the keys to the program's longevity.

The Hayden TOPS chapter celebrated its 50th anniversary Tuesday. It was officially organized on June 17, 1964, making it one of the oldest TOPS Clubs in Idaho.

"We're like a family," said member Sharon Kennedy. "This keeps you accountable."

TOPS got its start in 1948 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, when Esther S. Manz and two friends began supporting each other on a journey to thinner figures and better health. Today, there are more than 9,000 chapters across the United States.

Evelyn Spurgeon, a longtime member of the Hayden chapter, joined in 1969. Today, she serves as the group's weight recorder. Meetings start with private weigh-ins, and Spurgeon carefully documents the ups and the downs.

The Hayden TOPS chapter logged a net weight loss of 93.5 pounds last year, Spurgeon said.

The annual membership fee is $30 per year and the chapter's weekly dues are $3.

Some of that money goes toward small monthly prizes to the biggest losers, which adds a fun, competitive edge to the weight-loss process.

During the meetings, members learn to eat better, move more and find ways to stay motivated to keep striving for better health.

The focus is on improvement, not perfection.

The Hayden chapter's weekly weigh-ins begin at 7:30 a.m. at the Hayden Crossing Community Center, 88 W. Sargent Drive. The hour-long weekly meeting begins at 8:30.

"It's a wonderful group of girls," said Sunny Fagan, a member since 1986.

But it's not a women-only organization. Men and all ages are welcome, too.

Info: www.tops.org.