How do I start a Chapter?
In order to start a Chapter, you must submit a GLI Chapter Application. If you have questions before you submit your application, Contact Us.
Who can start a Chapter?
Any student or faculty member can apply to start a Chapter at her or his middle or high school. Students or parents can apply to start a Chapter as a Community Chapter outside of school, and nonprofit staff can apply to incorporate a GLI Chapter into their program. If you are a high school senior or 8th grader (or in the last grade your school offers), you must identify a student who will continue the Chapter after you graduate. This person’s contact information must be included in your application.
This application is not for college students. If you are a college student who wants to get involved, please contact asteimerking (at) feminist.org or check the Feminist Majority Foundation’s college programming at www.feministcampus.org.
This application is not for teachers or administrators of schools or nonprofits who are seeking funding. If you are interested in becoming a part of the Partner School Network, please contact Ashley Steimer-King, asteimerking (at) feminist.org.
Is there a due date?
Yes! There are two due dates for the two different start dates in the school year. If you want to start your Chapter in the fall, applications are due by September 1st of that year. If you want to start your Chapter in the spring, please turn in your application by December 1st. We can be somewhat flexible on deadlines, but please try your best to meet them!
What happens after I submit my application?
After you submit your application, you will receive a submission confirmation via email. In 2-4 weeks, you will hear back. Once you’ve been accepted, you will receive an acceptance email along with your Chapter Charter Agreement. The applicant should read the Chapter Charter agreement carefully and discuss any questions GLI staff.
What materials should I receive?
Chapters will receive a username and password to log in to the GLI Guidebook, an extensive online resource that will guide you in structuring the content of your Chapter meetings.
Will there be training to help me learn how to run my Chapter?
Yes, in addition to the training meeting in the GLI Guidebook, GLI hosts regional trainings in the fall. Trainings are held on location in NYC, D.C., Northern California, and Southern California. Webinar trainings are conducted Chapters in the Eastern and Western regions.
Additional webinars will be conducted in the spring for those starting Chapters at that time. At least one representative from your Chapter must participate in a training although everyone involved in the Chapter is welcome.
What do Chapters do during the year?
Chapters hold regular meetings (on average Chapters meet once a week). Chapters will focus on learning about gender equity and human rights, followed by advocacy and fundraising through hosting an Advocacy Event.
What is expected of a Chapter?
- Have fun and gain new skills – attend your GLI Regional Training (in person or webinar)!
- Educate yourself and your peers – hold regular meetings to learn about gender equity & human rights.
- Raise awareness and funds for girls’ education – hold an Advocacy Event to spread the word.
- Meet and collaborate with other leaders – send at least one representative to your regional meetings.
- Keep GLI in the loop – send GLI any Chapter updates, including Advocacy Event and contact information.