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Between congresses Active is not only board and office. It would be great if everyone would feel ownership and express their opinions and ideas, even if I get a bit dreamy here. Of course the board gets elected by the congress to deal with the issues stated in the Plan of Action and to solve everything that needs to be solved in the next two years for what we have the authority to. And this is what we do. But at the same time a dialogue with member organisations foremost and also with individual members would really make our work more down-to-earth and efficient, and would ensure more people being interested in board issues and hopefully wanting to join themselves for the years to come.
Some have already taken the chance and give their opinion. We thank Maik for all his effort also after having finished his voluntary service in Active, such as the recently published press release about tolerance and the seminar in Czech Republic (under News section). It’s great to see him keeping in contact, expressing ideas and trying to contribute - it is more than welcome, as extra energy is always needed in every board.
This leads to a concern on how to bring others to express themselves too. How to involve other members, to have their interest in Active issues and to ensure that they take part actively as well? It is great to have one person being interested, but at the same time it also brings the question where are the others? We don’t have that much money to organise many meetings with many members. The working groups (P-group and support group, you might have noticed the calls) to be formed will play an important role to hear our members, and we are publishing our board minutes from meetings and blogging about our work, but more is needed. Every member organisation has its specifics and for sure can bring fresh ideas and new angles, and Active needs it. The more voices we hear, the more democratic we are. One voice is good, but hearing 10 would be much better, not to mention 34. Members being more involved also means they know more and have a closer insight to the organisation, which would help to make Active truly transparent and open.
So – any ideas how to give our member organisations the feeling that they are welcome to contribute with their ideas, be more actively involved in issues and help us out in building a stronger, more democratic organisation with visible board’s work? You’re encouraged to comment the blog entry and give your ideas! Make your voice heard and let´s shape Active together!

The views on the blogs are the views of the blog writer, and not necessarily the organization. ACTIVE cannot be held responsible for any possible consequences.