NDFA proposal: Chicago DFA, NDFA & SSDFA spin-off, an umbrella organization intended to support existing chapters...

This was submitted late in response to proposals titled Chicago DFA & splitting NDFA into Chicago DFA plus NDFA.

I propose working with SSDFA (and others) to form an umbrella organization to build our collective resources.  Basically reforging the national DFA model into a regional organization that is responsive to the local chapters.

CHICAGO DFA

NDFA & SSDFA spin-off, an umbrella organization intended to support existing chapters, cultivate new ones, and build the progressive grassroots in Chicago.

OVERVIEW

• Volunteer board/steering committee has representatives from all regional DFA chapters
• Will raise money to support programs
• Does not make independent candidate endorsements

GOALS

• Cultivate DFA chapters in Chicago
• Grow the collective volunteer base
• Train the next generation of leaders
• Increase the impact DFA has in Chicago

STRATEGIES

• Develop a written best practices guide to advise DFA chapters
• Offer access to email lists, volunteer pool to new and existing chapters
• Mediate between local chapters if disagreements arise
• Hire staff to supplement chapter organizing activities when needed (ie: election season)
• Build collective email list using website, online petitions, social media, etc
• Advertise DFA chapters and activities both online and in print literature
• Directly recruit volunteers using training programs, participating in progressive activism, and offering speaker forums/seminars
• Develop new leaders through training programs
• Raise money to support programs through email, events, and call time
• Increase networking between progressive organizations by co-hosting regular social events