Action Labs
Driving the change are issue-focused Action Labs. Issues brought forward from the Community Advisory Circle (the Community) are prioritized into Action Labs based on the most urgent needs to move the sector forward. Depending on the issue, they can function like think tanks, research, policy/advocacy hubs, committees, collectives, etc. Outcomes from the Action Labs are directed to two nodes: the Organization, to coordinate the activation and the Core Leadership Circle to amplify the issue and influence change.
Action Labs form and disband based on the organization’s shifting priorities and the community’s needs.
Time and Investment:
Project-Based Labs
For addressing specific goals, like organizing a campaign, launching an initiative. They have clear starts and ends, disbanding after goals are met or when the project is completed.
Issue-Based labs
For tackling ongoing issues or policy changes. The timelines might be longer, but are reviewed and evaluated regularly to determine if they are still needed and effective.
Memberships in Action Labs are fluid and may rotate to keep fostering fresh perspectives and help prevent burnout. Length of someone's participation in the lab, and the group’s term of references will be set out and depend largely on the lab’s focus. This can help to bring new energy and ideas to the group. Rotation also helps spread out the leadership and responsibilities, avoiding centralizing decision-making and enabling the distribution of expertise, keeping things fair and inclusive.
Financial compensation for participation in the Action Labs is available to facilitate inclusive participation.