Monday, June 18, 2012

What is an At Large Chapter?


National Federation of the Blind of Colorado
Community At Large Chapter

What is the Community At Large chapter?
The Community At Large Chapter is a chapter that meets via conference call instead of in person.  Its purpose is NOT to replace in person chapter meetings, but rather to accommodate those who are either too far away to attend an in person chapter meeting, are unable to attend chapter meetings because of extenuating circumstances, or those who have schedule conflicts that prevent them from being a part of an in person chapter.

Who can become a member of an at large chapter?
Any person who has a desire to be a member of the National Federation of the Blind of Colorado but is unable to regularly attend an in person chapter meeting may make a request to the executive board of the Community At Large Chapter.  The executive committee will make the final decision regarding whether at large membership is most appropriate fit for the individual. 

What are the benefits of joining the Community At Large chapter?
As an at large chapter member, you will have the opportunity to learn about the goings on of the NFB on a national and state level.  You will also have the opportunity to work toward changing what it means to be blind in your area through initiatives of the at large chapter including legislative action, community outreach, and more.  If there are enough at large members in your area, we will work to start an in person chapter. 

Who can attend the Community At Large chapter meetings?
Anyone can attend at large chapter meetings.  Representatives from the National Center, members of the state board, and leaders in local chapters will be on calls regularly to share exciting NFB happenings.  You do not have to be a member of the at large chapter to attend a meeting.  Members of local chapters are encouraged to attend to show support for the at large chapter as well as to gain valuable information presented at the at large chapter meetings.

How does one attend an at large chapter meeting?
Our Community At Large Chapter Meetings take place on the fourth Tuesday of each month.  at 7:00PM.  You can attend the meeting via conference call by dialing 712-432-1500 and entering the access code 564151#.  Please call in by 6:55pm so that the call can start promptly at 7:00pm.  This is a long distance call for land line users BUT cost should not prohibit your participation.  If long distance charges are an issue for you, please contact Jessica Beecham at 303-778-1130 Extension 223 or 720-440-2632 so that arrangements can be made to get you into the call in a manner that will not result in a cost to you.    

If you have any questions or if you would like more information about the at large chapter please feel free to contact Penn Street, Community At Large chapter president at 970-581-4922 or by e-mail at icyimi@gmail.com.  

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