Start a community!
The American Humanist Association is the nation’s oldest and largest Humanist organization. Founded in 1941, the AHA – publisher of the Humanist magazine – currently has Chapters and Affiliates in 46 states and the District of Columbia. One of the primary focuses of the AHA is to form and sustain local Humanist groups.
In order to further spread the humanist lifestance, the AHA realizes that a presence in the nation’s capital is only part of the solution. Much of the responsibility for explaining Humanism to the majority of Americans – who have either never heard of Humanism or have misinformed impressions about it – lies with Humanists on a local level.
In communities across the nation, Humanists sometimes are forced to bear the burden of explaining and defending our lifestance to an antagonistic public. In addition to speaking out as individuals, one of the best ways to create change in a community is to join an existing Humanist group, or help create a new one. A grassroots community that can work as activists, think as intellectuals and live as friends has real potential to move us toward a humanistic future.
As a starting point, check out the Humanist Organizer Resource Center
The Resource Center is a collection of ideas, FAQ’s, and a place where we are always adding inspiration from our local community network.
Ready to become a Chapter or Affiliate?
Another vitally important issue to discuss is what sort of relationship the group wants to have with the AHA. A working relationship between the AHA and local groups is beneficial for both parties. The AHA is always excited about helping to start local Humanist groups, and works hard to support and sustain them. Our combined years of experience with local groups, along with many of our resources that we can usually provide for free, or at cost, can help our groups flourish. We hope that the relationship that is built between local group leaders and AHA field staff is one that will also translate into a willingness to establish a formal relationship between the two organizations.
There are two types of relationships a local group can engage in with the AHA. A local group can become an Affiliate or a Chapter. A brief overview follows. Let us know at the national office which type of relationship you are interested in pursuing, and we will provide you with more information on it.
Affiliates, many of whom are primarily associated with other national organizations, are local groups who agree with the mission of the AHA while maintaining a clear and separate identity. Affiliates receive benefits from the AHA with a minimal amount of commitment. Affiliating with the AHA is a good first step for some local groups to gain exposure to the wider Humanist community. Click here to see affiliate benefits (PDF).
Being a Chapter of the AHA involves a close level of relationship. Chapters are in substantial agreement with the AHA’s policies, goals and mission. Being a part of the structure of the AHA, Chapters receive preference when it comes to the allocation of resources. The AHA and its Chapters work together, which allows for a clear sense of identification and a chance for unity of action, all toward the goal of advancing Humanism. Chapters receive all the benefits of Affiliates and may receive priority in the allocation of those resources. Click here to see chapter benefits (PDF).
Fill out the Chapter and Affiliate Application Here to Get Started!
To learn more about any or all of these exciting relationships that your group can form with the AHA, the largest democratic organization in the nation that is promoting the humanist lifestance, contact the AHA at field@americanhumanist.org or on our toll-free line at (800) 837-3792.
We welcome you into the exciting and ever changing Humanist movement. It is through the dedication and hard work of people such as yourself that we are where we are today. With your drive and ingenuity, the potential exists to further advance humanistic ideals into society. The AHA is excited about that possibility, and wants to work with you to make it happen.