Blueprint For Local Chapter Formation
There are no fees to join or participate in ISAA events. Local chapters may engage in fundraising for local efforts if they so desire. If the local branch leaders have questions concerning fundraising methods, they may contact the international ISAA leadership by email at directisaa@gmail.com
Local ISAA branches are encouraged to create their own websites which can be
linked to and from the international ISAA website (http://www.size-acceptance.org). Local
ISAA branches are also encouraged to participate/assist in contacting teens in the local branch's area and helping set up ISAA Teen Support Groups. It is best to contact local high school administrators (Principals, Vice Principals, etc.) and see if they will let your local branch arrange to set up a table in the lunchroom during school lunch hours to distribute ISAA materials (flyers, brochures, membership forms and the ISAA bibliography, all available from the downloads section of the ISAA website). Usually only one or two people will be needed to distribute materials and answer questions, but if more ISAA volunteers are available to assist, then that is fine (so long as it does not hinder the effort). Local ISAA branches are encouraged to start a speaker's bureau by contacting size-friendly health experts (at your local or state Health Department) who might be willing to volunteer to speak at branch events or activities. In addition, local branches are encouraged to visit health fairs, organize size- and self-esteem oriented retreats and workshops or help with any other ISAA-related or size-acceptance-related activities.
It is recommended that local branch leaders make realistic goals for activism and strictly adhere to ISAA's Mission Statement:
"The Mission of the International Size Acceptance Association (ISAA) is
to promote size acceptance and fight size discrimination throughout the world by means of advocacy and visible, lawful actions. ISAA's primary purpose is to end the most common form of size discrimination and bigotry - that against fat children and adults; ISAA will strive to defend the human rights of members affected by other forms of size discrimination as well. ISAA defines size discrimination as any action which places people at a disadvantage simply because of their size. ISAA defines size acceptance as acceptance of self and others without regard to weight or body size."
If local branch leaders have questions regarding management of their chapter or help in the creation of a webpage for their local branch, they are encouraged to either e-mail Allen Steadham, ISAA's Director at: directisaa@gmail.com
or leave him a voicemail message at: 206.600.3089
If local branch leaders have questions regarding activism for their chapter, they are encouraged to call Russell Williams, ISAA's Vice President of Activism, at 301.797.1201. He can also be reached via e-mail at:
donquxiote1@myactv.net
Any other questions or comments can be sent to:
206.600.3089
ISAA
WHAT YOU NEED TO GET STARTED:
A meeting place for the branch, preferably indoors. Some possibilities include, but are not limited to: A set of officers (President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer) with
specified terms (in other words, a local chapter President shall be elected by the
members once every year, or once every two years, etc.) A regular meeting time (at least once a month, preferably on the same day or evening) for the chapter membersA general schedule of activities (should be more than just the monthly meeting) A supportive, friendly environment among the members, with a dedication towards helping each other and reaching out to others in need of ISAA's help.
MEMBERSHIP FEES
OTHER SUGGESTIONS
P.O. Box 82126
Austin, Texas 78758