First things first
When you organize a grassroots group there are a few things that have to be in place in order to set up an effective framework to tackle your issue. It is likely that at some point, depending on the issue. you will need professional people such as lawyers and/ or specialists in certain areas. But your initial legwork can affect how much of it you will really need.These needs will be assessed and hopefully accomodated by you and people in your newly formed group.
You must always keep in mind you have an ALL VOLUNTEER team for the most part. But in early meetings you may discover how diverse and talented your community really is. For some it can be a challenge making time, while others will be glad to rekindle an old interest or profession in order to serve the endeavor.
On the sign up sheet... there should be a place for all the necessary contact information to contact volunteers and supporters and keep them informed.
Name, address, e-mail, phone, hours they can be reached
There should be a check list with the following items solicting help :
1.Pros within your ranks?
Recognize any professional talents, legal, engineering or political whether they be members, their spouses, relatives or friends. This is a very critical resource. Even just a little direction from a professional can help.Don't abuse it . Make sure you have done everything that can be done before approaching these professionals. Ultimately they can either volunteer some time or act as a watchdog on outsourcing of that kind of work.
2. Gathering information from official resources regarding laws and any action that has occured through their offices. This should be readily available or through the FOIA ( Freedom of Information Act) There are time allowances and you have to figure reluctant officials into the equation so the sooner you officially request them the sooner you will get them.
This takes some time but it is generally the legal hinge of your case. Google is pretty good in picking up information these days. The FOIL and transparency laws are advancing in your favor... use them !
3. Research and compiling information on related matters from the web. Try not to re-invent the wheel. Often matters similar to yours have been prosecuted and with favorable outcomes. With Google and a cup of coffee you will be absolutely amazed at what you will find. At the minimum, research like this can save some legal and research costs along with developing contacts and studying successful strategies. In rare occasions the depth of your information can shock your opponents into an early submission. Don't count on that, but keep turning over them stones.
4. Attend meetings.
They are generally NOT the most interesting form of entertainment but with enough people they CAN be!
Meetings are generally poorly attended with only people seeking favor in the audience. So it is always a good idea to fill seats on a regular basis to establish the importance of your concerns. It is key to keeping your issue alive. Ultimately whether officials agree with you or not they do understand your role as voters and the potential for your influence on voters. Stress the importance of the "warm body" a supporter that has no obligation to speak. Simply filling a seat on behalf of the issue is valuble.
5.Informing the public
Finding and securing locatons at events or in the community to set up a table to make information. Preparing easy to understand pamphlets or flyers to enhance awareness. This should go as far as you can take it into the media including news coverage, TV and radio. A website is essential and EXTREMELY cost effective and efficient for this.
6. Fundraising to keep things going. It takes money to run these campaigns.
It is essential to find unique ways to create your funds. They can be community oriented from neighborhood yard sales, raffles, auctions, bake sales and donation checks from businesses and members of the communities.
7. I can help some way category.
This is a very important list to develop as you do not want to overburden people with valuble professional experience in important, but less critical matters.. These include:
Running errands.
Picking up filings from offices.
Becoming a copy making whiz.
Photographing relative issue content or events.
Maybe a batch of cookies for an informal meeting.
Donating good or services for a raffle.
Writing a check!
AND...
a million other things that "can come up " in the course the journey.
No special skills required, just a desire and effort to help solve the problem. |
