How to start a local group
Assuming you are starting from scratch in getting an Esperanto group together, start by joining E-USA. This will give you access to addresses of people in your area who are members of E-USA or who have at least expressed an interest in Esperanto. Look for an email group in the 'Local Groups' section of this website. If there isn't one already, consider starting one up. In any endeavor communication is key. Once you have a local group, you can ask the Central Office to notify you whenever there are informpetintoj in your area.
Having chosen a location, (a public place with food, access from mass transit, near major highways/landmarks, centrally located is preferable,) contact those in your area who might be interested, whether by letter, email, or telephone.
Don't be disappointed if the turnout is light. In this day, many people have things to do and the day you picked for your get together might conflict with other things. If you can start weekly or monthly meetings, eventually people will be able to 'make room' on the calendar to come if they want to.
Other Suggested topics:
- Setting a regular meeting date at a coffee shop, Starbucks, etc.
- Become a contact on the E-USA website for a local group.
- Notices in the newspaper.
- Cable TV community bulletin boards.
- Announcements in public libraries and community centers.
- School / college connections.
- Selecting a meeting place.
- Contacting the media.
- Press releases.
