Group Running Library
The SSA has numerous resources to help you run your group. We add new articles and resources all the time, so check back to see what we add!
If you have an idea for something that you don't see here or in the Group Running Guide, let us know. The general email for contacting SSA is ssa@secularstudents.org. To email our current campus organizer, use organizer@secularstudents.org.
Quick Links:Starting and Growing a Group, Event Planning, Problem Solving, Leadership, Internet Presence
-Starting and Growing a Group-
Constitutions and Bylaws
Every group should have a constitution and/or bylaws to govern the organization. A good constitution can support your group; a bad one can hinder it. We help walk you through creating your own.
Sample Constitution
Almost every university requires a student group to have a constitution. We provide you with a sample to start from.
Fundraising
Running a group can cost money. We'll help you find it!
Building Momentum & Growing Your Group
How do you take your fledgling group and make it grow? Here are some ideas to start!
Getting People to Meetings
If your group is struggling with attendance, here's a set of ideas to try (and things to watch out for!) to increase your membership.
Keep Your Meetings Fun!
Click here for ways to liven up your meetings and draw a crowd who may not always appreciate a scholarly meeting.
How to Keep Organized Membership Records Without Really Trying
Googledocs is a great resource for your group. See how it can help you stay organized and on top of your membership.
Does Your Group Have a Web Presence?
Click here for a great guide on several different options for an online presence.
What Kind of Information Do You Need in Your Web Presence?
Some resources, such as Facebook and Twitter, limit how much information you can have listed. Click here to see which type of information is too important not to have listed.
Online Media Dos and Don'ts
What type of web presence should you use? How should you do it? This handy-dandy guide offers some ideas!
Why Should Your Group Have Its Own Email Address?
Your group needs its own email address separate from the personal emails of your officers. Check out this page for ideas on what kind of service to use.
GroupSpaces: What is it and Should You Use it?
What exactly is this new resource named GroupSpaces? We lay it out for you, just follow the link!
Website Logos
We are more than happy to have our affiliates use our logo to show that they are affiliated with us. We have a collection of logos for use on your website, facebook page, flyers, ads and more.
Using QR Codes Effectively
Have you seen those little bar codes floating around recently on advertisements and posters? Click here to find out how they can benfit your group!
Group Event Planning Guide
One of the biggest challenges for new secular student groups or new leadership is figuring out what to do. This guide will provide step-by-step advice to make the task less daunting.
Sample Year
Not sure what all your group should or could be doing? This sample year will give you all kinds of ideas about how, when and what to do.
Activity Packets
Need an idea for something new to spice up your group's activities. Check out the activity packets for 
dozens of great ideas of events that have worked for other groups and learn how to do them yourself.
Sample Debate Format
Hosting a debate? Dan Barker helps with this handy sample format and loads of advice!
Speaker Event Planning Checklist
Having a speaker come to present for your group? Whether it's a local expert or Richard Dawkins, this checklist will help you navigate the waters.
Speaker Recording Waiver
Planning to record that speaker? Cover your bases with this simple, generic waiver/release.
Sample Press Release
We have a generic press release to show how you can announce your group to the world.
Planning a Service Trip
A large-scale service trip can have an impact on our communities and put a good face on nontheists. Make your mark - our packet can help!
List of Discussion Topics
Having a discussion meeting, but not sure what to talk about? Try our list of discussion topics - and send yours in to be added to the list!
Movie Suggestions
Are you planning a movie night for your group? If so, we have a handy list of movies, documentaries, and TV shows that other groups have found to be good choices.
Dealing with Vandalized Flyers
Our affiliates often deal with their flyers being torn down or vandalized. Learn some tricks to help!
2 Groups, 1 Campus
We're starting to see a few cases where we have more than one SSA affiliate at the same campus. We've created this article to explain some of the special consideration and precautions groups should take when they find themselves in this situation.
Leadership Transitions
No matter how great your group president is, eventually he or she will graduate. Plan for the future!
Leadership Transition Quick Plan
Sometimes you only have a few weeks to train new leaders. This guide will help you do so in an organized, efficient fashion.
-Student Movement Resources-
Secular Students in Interfaith
This page provides information on how and why secular students can and perhaps should engage in the growing trend of interfaith on campus.
Polls
This page contains information pulled from various polls and surveys relating to the increase of atheists, non-theists, and "nones."
Partners
Cooperation is a core value of the Secular Student Alliance and we proudly work with all of the following national and international organizations. If you're the head of a national or international organization that would like to get more involved with secular students, please let us know.
Off-Campus Groups
Humanism and atheism don't stop when you leave the campus! There are lots of excellent, local off-campus groups who advance the same values as affiliates of the Secular Student Alliance. Students and non-students alike are very welcome at these groups (just like campus groups, for that matter).
In-Person Student Group Training
The SSA Speakers Bureau offers a range of speakers who can come to your group in person and hold training sessions. If your group could use this, please check it out.
How To Find Leadership Opportunities at the National Level
It is possible to find a job or an internship at the national level. Find out how!
Submitted by Lyz on Thu, 11/20/2008 - 16:46
