Belonging to a local Freethought group is important for the whole community.
It allows us to track our own numbers and to grow as an overall movement.
Joining is important to you because it is a great way to meet friends and
like-minded people you will feel comfortable with in discussing a number of
relevant issues. Being part of the organization affords opportunities to
volunteer which, in turn, give you more of a feeling of ownership in the group.
It allows you to utilize some of your talents that may not pertain to your
career. There are so many volunteer positions available, you can really choose
what interests you most, from Treasurer to Newsletter Editor to Spokesperson.
Check the Atheist Alliance's Freethought Directory for a group in your area.
The directory lists Atheist, Rationalist, Skeptic and other Freethought
groups all over the world. Membership dues are often as ridiculously low as
$15 per year.
If there is none nearby, check meetup.com for less formal groups.
There are 77 of them worldwide.
The site also allows you to start your own "meetup" group. There are
currently over 5,000 Atheists waiting for someone to form a group nearby.
Encourage
meetup groups to form as non-profit Freethought groups.
This will allow you to receive tax-deductible donations as well as other
advantages. It takes just 4 members to comprise a board and the paper work is simple.
Check some sample bylaws for ideas.
Forming as a Church of Freethought has some advantages. Contact the NTCOF to learn how.
