The Grassroots Leadership College does a lot of different programming work now.  This year we'll serve several hundred people directly through our workshops, forums, "Reflect, Refuel, Re-frame" and semester programs.  We'll serve thousands more through our work with organizations and the role we played at the capitol.  The Community Organizing Semester is the base of our work.

We opened our doors in 2003 with our first semester group of more than 30 coaches and developing leaders.  Since then we've supported more than 100 different community organizing efforts through the Community Organizing Semester. 

It's a program for everyone.  Our youngest participant was 13 when he joined us, the oldest over 80.  Participants come from many backgrounds.  Some are professionals.  Some are former felons.  We've got folks who are homeless, homed, students, teachers, retirees, and just about anyone else you might imagine.  What's important is that people who come to the Organizing Semester believe that people like themselves can organize, can make positive changes in their community, and are willing to do the work to make it happen.

Participants play one of two roles.  We have coaches and developing leaders.

Coaches are people who have enough experience as activists and organizers that they feel they can lend an ear to someone else and help that person strategize and face the puzzles of organizing.  They don't have all the answers.   They may not have any experience in the particular issue their developing leader is working on.  They do have a willingness to listen and to think together.

Developing leaders may or may not have experience organizing and acting in their communities.  They may come into the program with a clear project they've been working and just want some help moving to the next level.  Or, they may come in with a broad idea that they'd like to fashion into something. 

Together participants attend 16 sessions (including a coach orientation and a graduation). Each session is built on the idea that we're all learners, teachers, and leaders.  So, while each session is facilitated by a skilled volunteer faculty person, the real guides are the participants.  Together we learn about facilitating meetings, getting and keeping volunteers, addressing oppression, developing strategies, and lots more. 

Over the course of the semester developing leaders meet with their coaches outside of class for more guidance and support on their projects.  Since we've started their have been more than 100 projects.  Many are ongoing.  Pierce's Grocery Store, Nuestro Mundo Community School, and more than twelve different neighborhood associations are some of the most visible projects.  Many graduates have gone to take on more efforts too beyond their first project with the GLC.  Our grads are working with youth programs at East Madison Community Center, coordinating local efforts to fight mining in northern Wisconsin, and dozens of other projects that have been taken on since graduation. 

Is there something you want to organize locally?  Or something you want to organize more effectively?  Apply to be a developing leader.   Do you have some skills, listening ears, and a wish to support someone else developing their leadership and organizing skills?  Apply to be a coach. 

We're accepting applications now for the fall.  Apply today, space is limited.  Cost for the semester is $100 for developing leaders or 10 Timebank Hours.  Scholarships are available.  No one is turned away due to lack of funds.  Coaches are volunteers for the program and do not pay tuition (though we welcome donations!) Childcare and dinner are included with all sessions.  Click here to apply.