What does it mean to develop or join an ally group?
Individuals from the broader community who are inspired to support the movement to end local violence can join or create ally groups with the PEACE Foundation. Ally group involvement can include:
- Receiving regular e-lerts from the PEACE Foundation to be notified about events, activities, and issues related to violence-prevention on the Northside.
- Coordinating group members to sign up for e-lerts. The PEACE Foundation can receive spreadsheets with email addresses to upload into the e-lert system. Ally groups are encouraged to take email sign up from members whenever possible.
- Committing to get involved on the Northside, which can include attending vigils when homicides occur, locating businesses on the Northside to support or visit, attending events held by the PEACE Foundation or their partnering Northside organizations (as promoted through e-lerts), etc.
- Participating in or organizing racial justice trainings, book readings, DVD viewings, etc under the leadership of the PEACE Foundation. Suggested readings, DVDs or training models will be promoted in 2008.
- Attending Gathering the Movement forums held by the PEACE Foundation to learn about public policy issues and how to support the movement.
- Organizing or participating in lobbying efforts to impact the social underpinnings that lead to local violence, in partnership with Northside lobbying efforts.
- Supporting resource development efforts for the PEACE Foundation and the Northside.
If you are interested in joining an ally group already established in your area, be sure to sign up with the organizers of the group AND submit your email address for e-lerts.
If you would like to start an ally group in your area or through your organization, call Michelle Martin, PEACE Foundation Director, at 612-521-4405.
