NOW’s Grassroots Power

Founded in 1966 by a small but determined group of women’s rights advocates, NOW has hundreds of thousands of members and contributing supporters as well as hundreds of chapters. NOW members are the heart, soul, and muscle behind the organization. They elect leaders, set policy and determine our agenda. NOW’s vast and diverse membership gives us clout in the government, media, and the public eye. By speaking out and taking action, NOW activists make change happen at the local, state and national level. Because we don’t rely on foundation or corporate dollars, NOW’s work for equality and justice is made possible by membership dues, individual donations and volunteer hours.

Starting a chapter

Don’t have a chapter nearby? Start one! Reach out to your state’s leadership or fill out the following interest form.

Campus Action Network (CANs)

What is a Campus Action Network (CAN)?

Campus Action Networks (CANs) are clubs on campuses that affiliate with NOW. Many NOW young feminists have tremendous impacts on their campuses in their local communities and nationally. 

What is the difference between a NOW CAN and a NOW Chapter? A CAN is not a NOW chapter, meaning you have more flexibility on what you do and you are not required to file with the IRS. NOW CANs also do not need to be new groups on your school campus. As long as you have an existing group that works on one of NOW’s Key Issues, they can join our network! Say you have a Black Lives Matter club on campus. That group can become a NOW Campus Action Network. By joining our network, the group will be connected to other CANs nationwide and will be provided with resources and support from NOW. Our goal is to connect young intersectional feminists nationwide. 

What are the steps to starting and/or registering a CAN?

  1. For middle and high school students, check out this checklist for starting a CAN! 
  2. Check out the CAN Guidebook. It is a great way to familiarize yourself more with CANs, as well as it gives you an idea of what action you can take. (Spoiler Alert: we want you to do whatever interests you! Let us know how we can help you in your action.)
  3. Fill out the NOW Campus Affiliate form 
  4. Download the Campus Affiliate Participant Form – bring it to your first (or next) meeting to collect information of participants and then email a filled-in copy to chapters@now.org. 

Resources for Taking Action!