[Steven Thompson]

When you first register, you go through a phase called 'validating'. During this period of time, the staff looks at the profile you submitted and learns a bit about you. During this time your abilities as a member are very restricted, and not being able to post in other forums is one of the abilities that the staff must enable. Though I could state many of the reasons for the validation phase, simply put it is for the safety of the members on this board.

In answer to the next question, it is through the User CP that you are able to apply for membership into these groups. On the left side after you click the link and the page loads, you see a category called 'Your Profile' with things like 'Edit your Details' in it. Right below that category is 'Networking'. It is in that category that you are able to view and apply to two kinds of groups. One is the social groups, and these are groups created by members on this board for the purpose of getting to know others who share similar interests, problems, or even locations. The other type of group is created by the staff, and has a forum to go along with it. Examples are Young Men, Young Women, The Agape Entourage and Mature Interests. There are over a dozen of these groups and each one is unique and covers much area in its' variety of topics. To be approved for either of these types of groups, the one who is in charge of the group must accept your application.

Hope this helps!
God Bless,