How to Implement a Collaborative Program

Student groups are certainly in a position to lead the charge on starting a collaborative network. In fact, students may be in a better position because of access and skill with computers and technology. Either way, we encourage our affiliates to reach out to the off-campus groups in their area.

Here is a rough outline of how you might proceed:

1. Investigate your area to see if there is already a network or other collaborative effort in the area. It is easier to join an existing group than create one from scratch!
2. Investigate your area to see what freethought groups are in your area. You might check with national organizations, such as American Atheists, the American Humanist Association, and Atheist Alliance International, to see if they have local chapters in your area. Use Google, ask your faculty advisor, check local newspapers and gathering places (bookstores and libraries are popular) to find local groups.
3. Designate one or two individuals (or an officer position or committee) to be in charge of the collaborative effort.
4. Contact local freethought group leaders and let them know what you are interested in doing. Remember that adults may not be as receptive to emails or online contact as students - don't be afraid to pick up the phone! Be prepared to explain any goals, activities, and methods you have in mind.
5. Ask if you can attend one of their meetings.

• Set up a time to meet with the group's leaders before or after the meeting to discuss a collaborative effort.
• See if you can make a short presentation about your campus group (or proposed network) at the meetings

Encourage the group to take an active role by inviting the leader(s) to speak at your next campus meeting.

Invite the entire off-campus group to attend an event, talk or discussion that your group is hosting.

Volunteer your time by helping with an event or participating in a community service program that the off-campus group is planning.

Continue communicating and participating in one another's events until you have established a strong relationship. Maintain that relationship!

If there is no off-campus group near you, there are still some options. If your student group is well-established and/or has a strong base of alumni in the area, you might be in a position to start an off-campus group. Groups should be advised that starting an adult group is every bit as demanding as starting a student group, though, and it's an effort that should only be undertaken if your group is in a position to handle it.