A. FIND OTHERS IN THE SAME BOAT
The first step in starting a Common Security Club is to bring people together to discuss the current economic crisis and how it is touching them personally.
Think of two or three people you know who are facing different challenges as a result of the economic crisis. With this core group, reach out to others for an introductory meeting.
Many CSCs are formed by people who already have some relationship through a religious congregation, union, community organization, or friendship. The culture of each group may differ. Work with your core group to develop a culture and language that will be most meaningful to the people coming together.
It is important from the beginning that the group set a positive tone, reflecting the possibilities of learning together, mutual aid and shared action. For example, some may have a shared culture of ritual, prayer, song. Others might prefer a secular inspirational readings. Everyone loves to gather around food, so perhaps organize the first gathering around a potluck dinner.
B. THE INTRODUCTORY MEETING
The first meeting should give people a sense of how a Common Security Club might be useful to them. There should be no sense of obligation to continue.
After the introductory meeting, participants that wish to continue should make a commitment to meet for four more facilitated sessions. Each of these sessions will give participants a glimpse of the potential benefits of continuing to meet together and strengthen their common security.
Suggested Agenda for an introductory meeting:
Download a detailed agenda with suggested talking points HERE
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