OneAmerica: Defining a Membership Program

OneAmerica organizes immigrant and refugee leaders and allies to build power in communities and runs campaigns to create a just immigration system, inclusive education for all, and a truly representative democracy. With a grant from Progressive Multiplier, OneAmerica is working to increase independent revenue by further defining and growing their membership program. 

Overview

OneAmerica Votes developed a structured membership program to generate independent revenue while advancing their mission. By designing a peer-to-peer fundraising approach that included training askers, creating branded materials, and hosting strategic events, OAV built a foundation for financial independence while strengthening their movement-building capacity. The project transformed their approach to fundraising and created pathways for deeper community engagement.

Key Strategies & Tactics

OneAmerica Votes' membership program consisted of several integrated components designed to diversify revenue while engaging different segments of their supporter base:

• Peer-to-Peer Recruitment: Training existing members and staff to invite others to join the membership program through personal conversations
• Branded Materials: Creating a comprehensive toolkit including logos, flyers, and cards with QR codes to support recruitment efforts
• Strategic Events: Hosting four gatherings specifically designed for membership recruitment, starting internally before scaling up
• Geographic Targeting: Focusing efforts in key counties (Yakima, Clark, and King) to maximize impact and build regional power

Lessons Learned

• Prioritize Personal Connections
  One-on-one asking proved far more effective than email or other digital outreach methods
• Create Multiple Entry Points
  Offering both one-time and monthly giving options increases participation and builds a pathway to deeper engagement
• Invest in Training
  Role-playing and script development prepare staff and members for effective solicitation conversations
• Start Internally
  Testing approaches with board and staff before wider implementation helps refine the process
• Make Space for Asking
  Dedicated events and structured opportunities for solicitation are essential for successful recruitment

The Multiplier Effect

Impact

OneAmerica Votes was able to create a sustainable funding stream while deepening community connections across Washington State. Their peer-to-peer approach, which emphasized personal conversations and relationship building, resonated deeply with their base and attracted new supporters to their cause.

This approach not only raised funds but enhanced their organizational capacity and increased their ability to conduct effective civic engagement work. The membership program created multiple pathways for supporters to engage with OAV's mission, from one-time donors to monthly contributors to active recruiters themselves.

The initiative was particularly significant given the organization's focus on immigrant communities, who often face barriers to political participation. By building a membership model that centers community voices and leadership, OAV strengthened their ability to advocate for policy changes and support candidate development across the state.

OneAmerica builds leadership and organizes grassroots leaders and our allies in key areas in Washington state to push for policy change, mobilize civic engagement in our communities, and advocate for systems that welcome and include immigrants at every level.