About the Humanist Community Project
The Humanist Community Initiative is a nascent project of the Humanist Society. The Humanist Community Project will help move local Humanism in a positive direction so that the Humanist movement as a whole may enjoy increased and diversified membership, the ability to reach out to a greater number of individuals, and the satisfaction of adequately serving our existing members. We Humanists are responsible for building organizations that meet human needs-the needs of Humanists in our culture.
Millions of Americans consider themselves nonreligious, and a majority of them live by ethical standards consistent with Humanism. Many of these individuals are frustrated by the fact that churches often provide the only place available to fulfill people's need for community involvement. This lack of community hinders mobilization and blunts our ability to effect change. Local Humanist groups already exist with various program focuses, but the future of the Humanist movement rests on the potential of communities.
Many Humanist leaders agree that forming broader community-based programs is key to the future growth of Humanism. With Humanists feeling increasingly alienated from the culture in the United States, it's imperative that local groups effectively meet the needs of their members and become local models of how Humanists help create dialogue and bring people together. The Humanist Community Project promises to expand the Humanist movement by expanding the number of people we are able to reach at the grassroots level.
Members of a community feel they belong, believe that they matter to one another and to the group, and strongly feel that their commitment to one another will help them meet their needs and goals and provide the satisfaction of doing the same for others. A community also provides programs, services, and a forum for the exchange and sharing of ideas and social interaction.
The Humanist Community Project would provide services for life cycle events by Humanist Celebrants, education for children and adults by employing the work of a part-time staff person and volunteers, and create a space for community activities and Humanist holiday celebrations by renting a facility.
To contribute to the Humanist Community Project, please donate to the Humanist Society.