SIETAR USA Local Groups
What are SIETAR USA Local Groups?
SIETAR USA Local Groups are cultivated by a core group of organizers who connect people with a deep interest and commitment to education, training, and research in the fields of intercultural education, and the fields of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. This network of local group members meet for professional development opportunities, social events, presentations, trainings, and discussions fostering personal and professional growth and meaningful connections. Local groups provide additional benefits and learning opportunities outside of national-level SIETAR USA programs and trainings.
What do Local Groups do?
Each Local Group sets its own goals, topics, and schedule. Though local groups can vary in organizational style, most meet monthly. Some are structured less formally, and use steering committees and planning boards, while others elect officers; all benefit from group collaboration. Typical meetings might include:
- Experiential activities and exercises
- Culture specific spotlights
- Speakers and authors
- Intercultural research
- Training and assessment tools
- Community service
- Social outings
- Networking opportunities
Interested in joining (or organizing) a Local Group?
Starting a SIETAR USA Local Group provides a forum to bring together an ever-growing network of leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, consultants, educators, trainers, students, and professionals committed to intercultural education, training, and research. These are the current local groups in the United States:
- SIETAR Atlanta: [email protected]
- SIETAR Bay Area
- SIETAR Chicagoland: [email protected], SIETAR Chicagoland on Facebook
- SIETAR DC: sietardc.org; SIETAR DC on Facebook
- SIETAR Florida: [email protected], SIETAR Florida on Facebook
- SIETAR Minnesota: [email protected], SIETAR Minnesota on Facebook
- SIETAR SOCAL
- SIETAR Tri-state (NY-NJ-CT):
[email protected], SIETAR Tri-State on Facebook
Do Local Groups charge dues?
Are Local Groups like chapters of the national organization?
Is it necessary for a Local Group to file for 501(c)3 status?
Can SIETAR USA mentor us or give us ideas for planning our events?
How to Organize And Maintain a Local Group
1. Contact the Director of Local Groups at [email protected] to see if a local group already exists in your area.
2. Organize a strong core of committed members. Reach out to others interested in intercultural relations. Invite people to take a leadership or steering role.
3. Connect with colleagues, professional acquaintances, and local universities who can contribute to and benefit from an association with a SIETAR local group.
4. Invite everyone to participate in the success of the local group by suggesting ideas, planning meetings and organizing future events.
5. Survey your members regularly to explore interests and needs and to get referrals for speakers and new members.
6. Grow your local group by building a welcoming community, offering professional development opportunities, and by supporting the intercultural practitioners in our field.
