How to Build Your Own Grassroots Movement in 2018

Is there an issue in your community that you can’t handle alone? Are you at the end of your rope trying to contact your town or city council and mayor? Like many Americans, you may need to take matters into your own hands in a grassroots campaign. The power of the people can never be underestimated, and building a grassroots movement is one of the crucial elements of true progress.

Set achievable goals

The strategy and power of your campaign depends on the goals you wish to achieve. You will likely find more success if you wish to say, fill potholes than if you’re trying to end world hunger. Enacting clear and realistic objectives helps your allies understand why you should organize, and how you will succeed.

Communicate!

Your mission statement should be clear and concise to help your community understand why they should support it. Know your audience, what they believe, and what is important to them. A plain and short message is also much easier to spread. Ask yourself what would convince you if someone knocked on your door.

Use social media

While many still consider social media a waste of time, it is a powerhouse for organizing communities and helping spread a message. Organizing and appealing to a neighborhood or community group, or even better starting one yourself, can help ideas spread like wildfire. If your goal and message is especially strong, you could even go viral and use that pressure to strengthen your movement.

Raise your funds

While it is possible to create a minor movement with little to no funds, the larger your group gets, the more likely it is that you’ll need to raise money. Spreading awareness and support is far easier when you have money to spend. There are many platforms and tools that can assist in crowd funding and fundraising of small donations. Just make sure before hand that all funds are squared away and legitimate, as mishandling could have criminal consequences.

Build a movement

Even if your campaign has grown on its own, it’s never a bad idea to look for allies. Look for and reach out to organizations in your community or region that might be interested in supporting your cause. Collaboration may be difficult; everyone may have different expectations or differing goals, but successful alliances can bolster support and grow a lasting campaign.

Hold policymakers accountable

If you are successful in your goals, maybe you’ve met with your local representative or government about your issue, stick with it! A victory is only worth it if you win the war as well. Don’t take maybe for an answer from anyone, and rally your troops if you’re refused. Keep your voice heard, and don’t be swayed by pretty words and promises.

A more politically active America is a strong America, and nothing is more politically active than community organizing. Hopefully you decide that you can make a difference in your home, and if so, maybe these tips will help you pave the road.