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For many years, participation in UAUS was largely connected to geographic local associations, but today, many of us connect differently.
Some readers participate primarily through Zoom. Some build friendships across states. In many ways, virtual connection has become a normal part of modern spiritual community.
Our new structure makes space for virtual associations alongside traditional local associations.
This means that a group can form around a shared interest or purpose; they aren't limited to having a shared geographic region. Virtual associations could focus on:
- a shared interest in outreach
- supporting young adults or families
- Spanish-speaking readers
- organizing regional gatherings
- online study communities
- book clubs and writing groups
- service projects
- a large geographic region (like, the Southeast United States)
- or many other possibilities
Local and virtual associations form the backbone of our structure, allowing us to work in partnership with each other and with readers around the world.
They are the spaces where readers get to know each other and form their closest communities, and where they get to know each other's talents and provide initial leadership opportunities. Like local associations, virtual groups may also send representatives to serve at the national level, which in turn sends representatives to serve at the international level of Urantia Association, supporting the global effort of disseminating Urantia teachings.
Here at home, we are especially excited about the flexibility our new structure creates.
The creation of virtual associations provides more opportunities for people to find meaningful connection and participation within UAUS. People can still be part of local associations, or they can join a virtual association where people are brought together by a shared interest or purpose.
Is there an interest or purpose that you would like to see in a virtual association? Do you want to be part of a regional group?
Start thinking about what kind of group you would like to be a part of. We have some local associations already, and we have some initial thoughts about virtual associations that people might be interested in.
All members of UAUS will be a member of one of the small groups - a local or virtual association - where you will have a voice in choosing leadership and where you will have the option to participate more fully. People will no longer be classified as "member-at-large."
So, as we prepare to cluster everyone into groups, we need to find out which groups should be formed.
Take a look at our brainstormed ideas and send us your own.
Visit our website to view a list of local associations that already exist, virtual associations that could exist if there is interest, and tell us what ideas you have for an interest or purpose that a virtual association could be centered around.
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