"How do I start an SSDP chapter at my school?"

An SSDP chapter is a group of students who care about ending the failed War on Drugs, and who receive support and advice from SSDP's national staff.

Starting a chapter takes a little work, but it isn't that hard. Unlike most national organizations, we don't charge dues or make you fill out lengthy paperwork.

In order to become an official SSDP chapter, you must: 1) contact our staff, 2) receive official recognition from your school, and 3) attend at least one "SSDP101: Meet The Staff" Conference Call.

STEP 1: CONTACT OUR STAFF

Click here to submit a chapter startup inquiry form.

STEP 2: RECEIVE OFFICIAL RECOGNITION FROM YOUR SCHOOL

All students who are starting chapters should consult this handy manual, which guides you through the process of getting a club set up on campus. Of course, our outreach directors are always available to help you through this process.

While most administrators welcome an open, honest dialog about drug policy on campus, we are here to help you assert your free speech rights if you do face any resistance. If you are denied by your school, we'll make an exception to the rule and recognize you as an official SSDP chapter. And then we'll help you challenge your school's decision.

STEP 3: ATTEND A CHAPTER ORIENTATION CONFERENCE CALL

These monthly conference calls are an opportunity for you to meet SSDP's entire national staff and at least one national board member. We will do our best to answer your questions about the organization, including an overview of the many services the staff provides for your chapter. You'll also get to meet many other students from across the country who are leading SSDP chapters.

If any of the following criteria apply to you, you should attend an orientation conference call:

1) You are starting a new SSDP chapter this semester.
2) You are a leader of an established SSDP chapter and:   
   a) Have not met every member of SSDP's staff, or  
   b) Have not attended a national conference   
   c) Have any questions about the national staff or the services they provide to chapters

To RSVP for an orientation call, fill out this simple form , and let us know which dates work for you. Just be sure to adjust for Eastern Standard Time, and include your NAME, EMAIL, and SCHOOL.

The student movement to end the War on Drugs is expanding rapidly, and we're happy to welcome you into that growing movement. Talk to you soon!

~SSDP's National Staff