Join Our Movement: How to Get Involved with SSDP

Students for Sensible Drug Policy (SSDP) is the largest national youth-led network dedicated to ending the War on Drugs. Whether you’re a student, alumnus, or concerned community member, there are multiple pathways to join our mission and make a tangible impact.

1. Start or Join a Campus Chapter

If you’re a high school, college, or university student, consider establishing an SSDP Campus Chapter at your institution. These chapters are officially recognized student organizations that utilize campus resources to host events, workshops, and advocacy initiatives. 

Steps to Establish a Campus Chapter:

• Complete the Interest Form: Begin by filling out the Interest Form, selecting “Chapter” and any other relevant interests. This initiates your journey and connects you with essential resources.
• Attend an SSDP Orientation: Participate in an upcoming orientation session to gain a deeper understanding of SSDP’s mission and effective organizing strategies.
• Achieve Campus Recognition: Work towards official recognition by your institution, which typically requires an advisor, a group of committed members, and a constitution. SSDP’s Chapter Development Director will provide guidance throughout this process.
• Conduct Regular Meetings: Begin holding regular meetings to plan and execute initiatives that align with SSDP’s goals.
• Maintain Communication with SSDP: Stay connected with SSDP for ongoing support, resources, and strategic advice.

2. Form a Community Chapter

For non-students or SSDP alumni, forming a Community Chapter is an excellent way to engage in local advocacy and education efforts.

Steps to Establish a Community Chapter:

• Complete the Interest Form: Fill out the Interest Form, selecting “Community Chapter” and other relevant interests.
• Attend an SSDP Orientation: Join an orientation session to understand SSDP’s framework and how to effectively operate a community chapter.
• Organize Regular Meetings: Hold consistent meetings with your group to pursue objectives that further SSDP’s mission.
• Stay Connected with SSDP: Keep in regular contact with SSDP to receive support and resources as your chapter develops.

3. Become an SSDP Ambassador

If starting or joining a chapter isn’t feasible, consider becoming an SSDP Ambassador. Ambassadors are influential voices who amplify SSDP’s mission within their communities.

Steps to Become an SSDP Ambassador:

• Complete the Interest Form: Submit the Interest Form, selecting “Ambassador” and any other pertinent interests.
• Attend an SSDP Orientation: Register for an orientation session to equip yourself with the knowledge to effectively represent SSDP’s mission.
• Engage in SSDP Activities: Participate in SSDP committee meetings, online trainings, and events to stay informed and active.
• Maintain Communication with SSDP: Regularly connect with SSDP to receive updates and support in your role as an Ambassador.

4. Join a Committee

SSDP offers various committees that focus on specific aspects of drug policy reform, such as the Drug Education Committee, which is shaping the future of drug education and harm reduction on college campuses and in school systems nationwide, and the Science Policy Committee, which took on the DEA in court to keep scientific research legal this year. Joining a committee allows you to collaborate with like-minded individuals on specialized projects and initiatives.

How to Join a Committee:

• Express Your Interest: Contact SSDP at ssdp@ssdp.org to inquire about current committee opportunities.
• Participate Actively: Engage in committee meetings and contribute to ongoing projects and discussions.

• Monitor Announcements: Stay informed about application openings by regularly checking SSDP’s blog.
• Submit an Application: When applications are open, complete the required forms and participate in the selection process.

5. Support SSDP With a Tax-Deductible Donation 

Since 1998, SSDP has mobilized thousands of young people to advocate for a more sensible approach to drug laws. Countless policy reforms led or supported by SSDPers now protect people from punishment if they call for help during an overdose, help students access college education regardless of drug citations, and provide safe access to cannabis for adult or medical use.

Learn more about some of our biggest wins in 2024 and make a donation to help young people across the nation continue to replace the disastrous War on Drugs with policies rooted in evidence, compassion, and human rights—policies that make sense.

Joining SSDP offers multiple avenues to contribute to meaningful drug policy reform. Whether through starting or joining a chapter, becoming an ambassador, participating in committees, or donating to support our mission, your involvement is vital to our collective success.