And now for the part that I’m sure I will be criticized for, I want to run one which specifically promotes secular values. There are plenty of community centers that are run by Churches and promote Christian or other religious values, and there are those which are religiously neutral not taking any stance. But I’ve never seen one which specifically promotes Atheism. And before I get flamed for this, I have no intention of promoting my beliefs while by being judgmental, cynical, insulting, or insensitive. I often have religious discussions with people who knock on my door and I’ve never felt the need to resort to those tactics. In fact, the same Jehovah’s Witness has come by the house quite a few times..she’s a wonderful woman who I know sincerely cares for my welfare and well being, and shes genuinely trying to save me from eternal damnation..in all honesty its quite touching and we have wonderful conversations. I just want to do the same thing she’s doing…I want to help people…I want to help people open their minds and try and find real truth – or at least be willing to look for it. Please, save the religious and philosophical arguments for another time. I’m more than happy to have those discussions, just not right here. 🙂
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I don’t know if you are aware of a school that Jehovah’s Witnesses have to help them how to converse and to do public speaking.
It is held usually on an evening. You can just listen in.
It is free and without obligations.
The people are kind and will respect your convictions.
Ask your Witness friend where she meets, there is nothing to loose
The first step, I think, is to demonstrate that the community would participate in and benefit from such a place. Without a proven track-record, an organization will have a difficult time gaining investors- whether those be private or public funds (grants). My advice is to first form a “Secular Humanist Society” and to hold regular meetings- get the group involved in the community through outreach and education. Technically speaking, you will need a board of directors and and a treasurer to incorporate and get not-for-profit status. Once you are a NFP entity, fund raising becomes much easier.
Whenever possible, I would avoid the word “Atheism”. Words carry with them unintended baggage. Whether they realize it or not, many people hear that word, in particular, and associate it (unjustly) with an agenda aimed at tearing down the establishment- “Secular Humanism”, “Advancement of Intellectualism”, or “Non-religious Outreach”, come off as more benign, and are much more palatable to the general population. Even if someone doesn’t agree with these views, they are less likely to launch themselves into a vitriolic frenzy. Also, many open-minded church-goers, spiritual seekers, or true agnostics, may feel that they are not really welcome somewhere if it is promoted as being for atheists; but they would gladly come to a “Renaissance Center” that is geared toward the advancement of knowledge and intelligent discourse.
For the record, I think something like this could be successful here, provided you start small and spread through grassroots and word of mouth (much like a church). It’s a small, but under-served and growing community. If you do decide to pursue this further, please keep me posted. I’m certain I know some people who could help.
Why not join you Jehovah’s Witness friend if you want to “do the sme things she’s doing”?
In any case, if you have legs just start visiting your neighbours and tell them the same thing you just told us. Knock on their door, introduce yourself and start a conversation.
Let us know how you get on, you sound sincerely kind and I’m sure your neighbours and the community in which you live will welcome your message.
SUNSHINE
http://www.wikihow.com/Start-a-501c3-Nonprofit-Org…
See my link.
Not all religions are opposed to community centers, there are many religions willing to work together despite their differences. Keep in mind the Jehovah’s Witnesses WILL NEVER agree to work with anyone else. It’s their way or the high way.
You may need religious leaders to help, only go to religions that have a track record of working with the community.
Good luck with your NPO – I wish you the best with it.
Source(s): http://www.wikihow.com/Start-a-501c3-Nonprofit-Org…