Starting a Club: 1-2-3
The first thing that you must understand is that by federal law, a Christian Campus club
must be started and led by students. The Supreme court used the words, “Student led,
student initiated.” So the first step is finding students who want to start a club.
1. Petition the administration.
This is usually the activities director, sometimes the principal or vice principal. Tell
them you want to start a club and find out what your school requires. Almost every
school requires an advisor. This is usually a teacher. Some schools require a
charter and can usually provide a sample charter for your club. Use the Campus
club Proposal and the Benefits of a Christian Clubto make your case.
2. Secure a location.
This is an important decision. A classroom or some other kind of meeting room
should be easily accessible and a good place to actually have a meeting. A TV and
DVD player is a plus.
3. Decide on a time.
Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday during lunch is usually the best. Students can
eat their lunch during your club.
4. Register your club.
Go to www.yausa.com to register your club for free and get
more free resources.
If you have problems . . .
Your school cannot stop you from having a club if there is even one other club of any kind.
If the principal tells you cannot have a club or discourages it for all kinds of reasons, let
him or her know that you appreciate their concerns, but you still intend to exercise your
constitutional rights to have an officially recognized campus club. If the problem persists,
contact a pastor or other adult who can help you. www.mycampus.org has sample letters
you can download to help you through this legal process if there are problems. Usually, a
little more information can help your school administrators understand the law.
Related downloads . . .
Sample Club Constitution – This is basic and in Microsoft Word format for easy editing. Go . . .
Club Proposal – This is something you can go over with your administration about what your club would be like. Also in MS word format. Go . . .
1:9 plan One-Page Download
Links
Youth Alive National “How To Start a Campus Club” page – A very helpful page with extensive instructions and links.
Charter Online with Youth Alive – Charter your club and get ongoing resources.
Register your Club with everyschool.com – Help other students and churches find your club.