WHY GAP?

The GAP Network evolved from an informal community of statewide coalition leaders of “Resistance” organizing groups that sprung up following the 2016 elections. These coalition leaders identified a shared problem. Their constituent groups tended to be volunteer led and legally unincorporated. Lacking non-profit status and without any paid fundraisers, they were invariably overlooked by the progressive donor community. These talented and hardworking organizers struggled to secure access to critical resources such as voter file data, tech tools, and volunteer support & training. They were expected to work without compensation or the ability to hire staff.

GAP steps into this critical breach by partnering with donors to facilitate the direct flow of resources and funds to vetted local organizers.

This approach helps funders support grassroots groups without jeopardizing the flexibility that makes these grassroots leaders so effective. By facilitating the sharing of best practices and innovative ideas, GAP also allows boots on the ground leaders to learn quickly from the successes and failures of their peers, and optimize their groups’ efforts in the communities where they organize.