Action Circles Organizing Model

Amy Shollenberger has developed the Action Circles model of organizing over many years. Because the model borrows from many other organizing models, trained organizers might recognize similarities. This model has several goals, outlined below, and also has several underlying principles that help to achieve the goals. It strives to build leadership throughout the movement, and to honor and respect each person’s contributions to the task at hand. The model can be applied in many different ways, and has been tested in campaigns, fundraising efforts, marketing plans, and advocacy work. Let us show you how we can make the model work for you!

Goals of the Action Circles Model of Organizing:

1. Build a strong movement with broad and deep leadership
2. Build solidarity among people who are oppressed or are suffering an injustice
3. Help people identify and use their personal power
4. Provide safety and opportunity for everyone in the group to develop skills and experience
5. Recognize all contributions both privately and publicly
6. Accept everyone’s truth as equally valid
7. Offer many opportunities for meaningful participation
8. Use resources for maximum effectiveness
9. Build accountability structures that are non-hierarchical and effective
10. Develop a commitment to democratic principles that is expressed throughout your organization

Principles of Action Circles Organizing

1. Respect (v. tolerance)
2. Truth (v. fact)
3. Transparency (v. hierarchy)
4. Support (v. education)
5. Accountability (v. blame)
6. Democratic Decision Making (v. exclusion)
7. Movement Building (v. mobilizing)
8. Sharing Power (v. empowering)
9. Solidarity (v. control)
10. Acting from Hope (v. acting from fear)