Out & Equal Workplace Advocates is thrilled to meet the growing need of LGBT employees across the United States who have expressed interest in starting their own Out & Equal regional affiliate group!

The Regional Affiliate program brings the Out & Equal mission of workplace equality for all to the local level - provided networking and educational opportunities throughout the year and around the United States.  The program is directed and supported by the Out & Equal NETWORKS! staff, with advice and support from the co-chairs of each regional affiliate's Leadership Council, which meets bimonthly via conference call.  Below is information on how to start a Regional Affiliate in your area.  For full information about the procedures for an Out & Equal Regional Affiliate, download the Regional Affiliate Guidebook.

Want to start a local Affiliate?

1. Do some research to determine initial interest and need
   Become familiar with Out & Equal's educational programs, constituents, and vision. Determine if there is a need in your community for the type of work Out & Equal does. Are there other programs — LGBT networking groups, educational groups, professional organizations — in your area doing related work with whom you can partner, or that would help support the Affiliate?
2. Network, network, network
   Find dedicated individuals in your community who are interested. To start an O&E affiliate, you will need a minimum of five people from five separate organizations/employers. We recommend gathering a minimum of 10-15 people for initial conversations to learn more about the responsibilities and benefits of having an O&E Affiliate.
3. Informational meeting with Out & Equal
   Contact Out & Equal to have representatives meet with your group by phone or in person to outline benefits and expectations. O&E staff will discuss the impact of Regional Affiliates on a national and local level, provide examples of initial documents, and supply information about how other affiliates were created. In addition, O&E staff will explain the application process and answer questions.
4. Application process
   Once you have met with Out & Equal and your group has decided to move ahead with becoming an Out & Equal regional affiliate, you will need to complete a Regional Affiliate application [DOC, 136KB]. Out & Equal staff will guide you through this process, which requires approval by the Out & Equal management team. 

For additional information on how to start a local Out & Equal Regional Affiliate,
please email Out & Equal NETWORKS!