Starting a local grassroots network of massage therapists involves several key steps to ensure effective organization, engagement, and action. It can also be as simple or as complex as needed and as time allows.

Start where you are at.

Just invite one other massage therapist for coffee or lunch and talk.

Set up a regular day of the month and time to meet. (First Monday of the month, Third Tuesday at 12 noon)

Each week you can decide how things will work. Do you need help or answers to specific questions? Do you just need time to talk and be listened to?

Invite more people.

Make it a more formalized meeting and find a local community center, library or coffee shop to hold meetings.

Look into having a specific speaker come and provide an hour or two CE presentation.

Have a potluck!

When you are ready to formalize things more here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get started:

1. Define Your Vision and Mission

  • Vision: What is the long-term goal of your network? (e.g., advancing the massage therapy profession, advocating for better legislative policies, providing CE, providing peer supervision, trading massage, etc.)
  • Mission: What are the specific objectives you aim to achieve? (e.g., regular meetings, legislative action, building community, etc.)

2. Identify Core Issues

  • Determine the key legislative issues and professional challenges that need addressing. This could include licensing laws, educational standards, insurance coverage, and more.

3. Recruit Founding Members

  • Reach Out: Contact local massage therapists through social media, email lists, and local massage schools.
  • Engagement: Explain the benefits of joining the network and the impact it can have on their profession.

4. Establish a Leadership Team

  • Roles and Responsibilities: Define roles such as Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer, and Communication Coordinator.
  • Diverse Skills: Ensure your team has a mix of skills including organizational, communication, and advocacy skills.

5. Create a Structure

  • Regular Meetings: Decide on the frequency (e.g., monthly, quarterly) and format (e.g., in-person, virtual).
  • Committees: Form committees for different tasks such as legislative action, event planning, and community outreach.

6. Develop a Communication Plan

  • Online Presence: Create a website and social media pages to share updates and resources.
  • Newsletters: Regular newsletters to keep members informed and engaged.

7. Plan Initial Meetings

  • Agenda: Prepare a clear agenda for the first few meetings, including introductions, goals, and action plans.
  • Guest Speakers: Invite experts to speak on relevant topics (e.g., legislative experts, experienced therapists).

8. Focus on Legislative Action

  • Education: Educate members on current laws and proposed changes.
  • Advocacy Training: Provide training on how to effectively advocate for legislative changes.
  • Action Plan: Develop a plan for lobbying, contacting legislators, and organizing advocacy events.

9. Build Camaraderie

  • Social Events: Organize social events to build relationships and trust among members.
  • Support System: Create a supportive environment where members can share experiences and advice.

10. Evaluate and Adapt

  • Feedback: Regularly seek feedback from members to improve the network.
  • Flexibility: Be open to changing strategies and structures based on member needs and external circumstances.

11. Sustainability

  • Funding: Explore funding options such as membership dues, fundraising events, and grants.
  • Growth: Plan for the growth of the network by setting long-term goals and expanding membership.

Additional Tips:

  • Leverage Technology: Use tools like Zoom for virtual meetings and project management software like Trello or Asana.
  • Collaboration: Partner with other local and national organizations to amplify your efforts.
  • Transparency: Maintain transparency in decision-making and financial matters to build trust among members.

Starting a local grassroots network requires dedication, organization, and a clear vision. By following these steps, you can create a strong, effective network that supports the massage therapy profession and advocates for meaningful legislative action.