SHARE
Being Part of an Action Group
Being part of an action group working on a community-defined project can be rewarding but also challenging. Key areas to consider include leadership, communication, coordination, resource development, and planning.
Choose Meeting Spaces Carefully
- Facilities set the tone for meetings. Avoid spaces that may feel unwelcoming (e.g., churches, government offices).
- Select a space large enough for the group, with extra chairs and room for movement. Ensure participants can see one another and that materials/equipment are available.
Provide Structure for Group Members
- Determine the charge of the group: Why are we here, and what are we going to accomplish?
- Set aside a meeting to discuss expectations, roles, and responsibilities so everyone understands what is expected of them.
- Decide how often the group will meet (e.g., the first Monday of each month, bi-weekly).
- Ensure the group is well represented by a diverse population of community members.
Ensure Meetings Are Effective and Organized
- Provide name tags if participants don’t know each other.
- Establish a specific purpose for each meeting.
- Start and finish on time.
- Have an agenda and stay on track, while allowing flexibility for discussion.
- Prevent domination, arguments, off-topic diversions, or personal agendas.
- Keep meetings lively, positive, and forward-moving.
- Schedule adequate breaks, with refreshments if possible.
- Clarify decisions, actions needed before the next meeting, and next meeting focus.
- Distribute minutes or notes promptly, with reminders of assignments and details.
Utilizing All Possible Networks
- To identify local capacities and resources—human, financial, physical, and community-wide—conduct an asset-mapping activity in your community.
- Develop and/or strengthen coalitions among individuals and organizations to support the group’s work.
- Build linkages outside the community to broaden support.
Keep Group Members Motivated Throughout the Process
- Recruit, inspire, and motivate volunteers effectively to get the job done.
- Visible change keeps people engaged. On long-term projects, ensure there are short-term achievements to maintain inspiration and commitment.
- Make jobs manageable. If a task grows too large, divide it into smaller pieces and distribute responsibilities among more people.
- Celebrate accomplishments frequently. Recognize small as well as big successes—they don’t have to be elaborate or expensive.
Spread the Word About Your Action Group
- Develop a community-wide communication network to share the group's efforts. Use multiple access points: newsletters, newspapers, bulletin boards, websites, libraries, schools.
- Communicate positively about volunteers and their activities to encourage broader interest and participation.
Resources:
Building Communities from the Grassroots - Community Development Academy, University of Missouri
The Community Tool Box, Kansas State University, https://ctb.ku.edu/en
