Create the Organization and its Structure

When it becomes clear that an issue will require organized and active involvement by a group of citizens, the next question is, how much "organization" is necessary? Some situations can be satisfied by an ad hoc group that comes together to speak for or against a proposal. Under other circumstances, a formal entity needs to be created to ensure long-term involvement and input by affected parties.

This does not mean that a new organization must be created. In fact, an association or organization may already exist to deal with similar problems, issues or processes, and it is therefore appropriate to combine resources. Before deciding on a new group or an existing organization, ask the following questions:

If you intend to tackle a large issue you will need allies. Approach other organizations by asking to speak on a matter of community importance at their next executive or general meeting. After you have presented, distribute material outlining your objectives, program and budget. A good way of getting agreement is to ask someone from the group you are approaching to help prepare your presentation. A coalition requires that all participants have a clear set of expectations and get together regularly to develop a friendly working relationship. A coalition works best when established for a specific project, and then allowed to lapse when the project ends.

If a new organization is to be formed, the next thing to consider is how that group will be structured.

Grassroots organizations seem to work better with a flat structure as free as possible of boards, directors, and chairs. Flatness, or the absence of an organizational hierarchy, does not eliminate individual roles or responsibilities. In fact, the result is just the opposite: a "flat" organization can involve large numbers of people in many small tasks. Typically, grassroots organizations elect officers, and larger groups use committees to handle various tasks.

One reason this is important is because of the number of small tasks that must be undertaken. The most successful traditional organizations have:

Cases

References & Links

The Citizens Handbook: A Guide to Building Community in Vancouver
Vancouver Citizens Committee
     Grassroots Structure

Community Toolbox: Bringing Solutions to Light
University of Kansas Work Group on Health Promotion and Community Development in Lawrence, KS, and AHEC/Community Partners in Amherst, Massachusetts
     Organizational Structure