Why do we need GrangeNet?

1. The current economic crisis extenuates the reality that many communities working alone lack the capacity to identify and address their needs.

a. Loss of industry and jobs has hampered its ability to leverage financial and social capital.
b. Social service program cuts leading to further fraying of the social safety net.
c. Social infrastructure and capital has not been developed.

2. The role of the Grange.

a. It is our job
b. The only thing constant about the Grange has been change.
c. It has been a site of social interaction, recreation, leadership development, community service.
d. Public space.
e. Over time, the Grange and its membership became more inaccessible.
f. If you want to get something done, ask a busy person.
g. It is not about membership development, but service.

3. GrangeNet was formed to meet those challenges.

a. By mobilizing social, technical and financial capital from Granges across the state.
b. Customize assistance rather than one size fits all.
c. Decisions are transparent
d. Actions are fiscally responsible.
e. Shared decision making
f. Work with applicable laws and regulations
g. Employ “best practices” rather than adhere to ineffective methods of the past.
h. The ability to organize and build capacity
i. Build leadership
ii. Building relationships and networks iii. Maintain a community center
iv. Acquire cash
v. Access technical expertise vi. Skill development