You Started a CANDLE Program Now What Can You Do?
Your organization worked extremely hard and has established a strong relationship with a local campus group. Now, take things a step further.
Community Service
Encourage students to engage in community service. This type of work can solidify bonds among student members as well as between students and local off-campus participants. It is also fulfilling work that can aid with recruitment and improve the image of both your groups and the movement.
Civic Participation
Let students know how important it is to have a voice in local, state and national government.
- Lead by example—share stories of letters to the editor your group has written, letters to politicians your group has written, town hall meetings people within your group have spoken at, visits to politicians you have made.
- Ask them to help—while you’re doing any of the above, ask the students to come along or write their own letter.
- Involvement in the National and International Movment
College does not last forever. Students have to understand that this movement stretches beyond college campuses. Encourage students to seek membership in national/international freethought groups. This will keep them from focusing solely on the campus movement and will help keep students active in the movement after graduation.
Alumni Development
The vast majority of students involved in this movement cease their involvement after graduation. Intervene by talking to juniors and seniors about how they can continue their involvement after graduation.
- Help graduates find a local freethought group in the area they are relocating to. The SSA can help, ask us!
- Encourage students staying in the area to attend your meetings after graduation.
- Offer one free year of membership following graduation
- Send special invitations to alumni
- Give new alumni members important responsibilities. Encourage them to become officers in your organization.
- Encourage alumni members to keep in contact with their former student group.
- Encourage internships with national/international freethought organizations, and tell them about job opportunities in the movement.
In all of your interactions with student leaders, remember to treat them as peers. They are the future of this movement, keep them engaged.