Start a Fellowship in 4 Steps

Step #1: Contact Us!

The first step to create a local chapter is to contact us and let us know that you're interested. Together, we can brainstorm possibilities and develop realistic strategies and goals. The phone number at our office is (714) 529-1926. You can also e-mail us at info@mef-la.org.

Step #2: Organize an exploratory meeting

You may already know a couple of people at your church, school or local community center who are interested in the Middle East and social justice issues. We can also put you in touch with our contacts in your area who might be interested in attending one of your meetings. It's always a good idea to process strategies as a group, so bring everyone you know together for an informal chat. It doesn?t have to be a huge group, just enough people to have a productive conversation. From this meeting you will have developed a planning committee, who can then help you organize your first public meeting.

Step #3: Set a time and a date for your first official meeting.

Find a place to meet: a member's home, a church, a room on campus or a public meeting space. Make sure you have enough chairs for people to sit in and, if possible, some snacks or coffee to make people feel more at home. And be sure to publicize! Send out e-mails to everyone you know in the area, inviting them. Create a small flyer for the meeting and see if you can post it in some public areas like a coffee shop or a bulletin board at your church or school. Let us know when you've scheduled your first meeting so that we can help you brainstorm about how best to publicize this event. You may be surprised by how many people are interested!

Be sure you debrief your first meeting with your planning committee.

Step #4: Become a force for change!

Now you have the ball rolling. You've had your first official meeting and you have a core group of committed individuals. As your group evolves and grows, your interests, talents and resources will change and the possibilities of what your group can accomplish will also increase dramatically.

Be sure that you're meeting regularly and encouraging your group members to become deeply involved in your efforts. People involved in your group probably have a wide range of talents, so be sure to utilize their skills! Move on to the "Ideas for Action" section for suggestions about activities your chapter can implement.