One of the first concepts I learned when I was a baby organizer was the idea of force multiplying–the fundamental principle of building power. Force multiplying is the use of a factor or method to significantly amplify the effectiveness, reach, or output of something. It’s about more than just “going viral”–it’s about magnifying impact.
UUWF is small but mighty, as we know most congregations and gender justice groups are, as well. Smaller, and I would argue, mightier than those working to dismantle everything we value–dignity, compassion, and justice. But it’s easy for the “small” part to feel, well, big.
That’s one of the reasons we are launching our new Affiliate Program for congregations and groups. UUWF’s history with groups has taken many forms over the years, but there has never been a comprehensive program that offers congregations opportunities to force multiply. We are aiming to change that.
Starting today, congregations and gender justice groups can become affiliates of UUWF, and in so doing, gain access to supportive programming, consultation, and connections that can magnify their impact. Affiliate benefits include:
- Biannual Affiliate Gender Justice Subscription Box
- Quarterly check ins & Opportunities to virtually gather with other Affiliates
- Curricula that can be offered in congregational or group settings
- Personal consultation with UUWF staff
And more!
We are so excited to get started…and we don’t see this as a one-way street. We recognize that many of you have been working to advance gender justice for many years. Similarly, many of you are relying on the most current and creative methods for making change. We have much to learn from each other. We hope that in building a community of affiliates, we’ll be able to help each other force multiply and use our might for good. What we are building is for mutual benefit and accountability. It’s time to take our work to the next level–together. Find out more and apply for affiliation here.
****A note about annual dues: Affiliation does require annual dues. We had much internal conversation about this, and got lots of feedback from UUs in the community. We considered many different dues models. Ultimately, we calculated the estimated cost of running this program per affiliate, and built a tiered dues structure for congregations and groups to help cover a small fraction of that cost. We recognize that “small fraction” is relative, and we all operate with vast variation in resources. That’s why one of the options you’ll see when considering the dues structure is the option to talk with us one-on-one about your annual dues. Our hope is that those congregations and groups that can will choose tiers that make it easier for us to support those with less financial wealth. It’s not perfect, but we think it’s reasonable. Many hands make lighter work, and we see this structure as part of our commitment to each other.
The Trouble With Money