Building Your GSA

If you want to create an amazing GSA, you’ve come to the right place! Behold the winning formula for starting and running a successful Gay-Straight Alliance club: BUILD: Begin, Unite, Inspire, Lead, Don’t give up!

This section contains everything you need to know to organize a kick-ass GSA. Just follow these steps to BUILD your GSA!

Begin

Learn about GSAs and find out how you can start one! Check out:

• What is a GSA? [1]
• 10 Steps for Starting a GSA [2]

Unite

Unite your group around a common purpose, set goals, and find out how to get more members! Check out:

• How to Have a Kick-ass GSA [3]
• How to Get More Members and Allies [4]

Learn more about uniting your diverse student body in these sections:

• Coalition Building [5]
• Creating Inclusive GSAs [6]

Inspire

Learn how to ignite your community and spread your enthusiasm in:

• Public Speaking [7]
• Dealing with Apathy [8]

Lead

Leadership is an art. These resources will help you become an amazing GSA leader:

• GSA Leadership [9]
• Transitioning Leadership [10]
• How to Facilitate a Meeting [11]
• Decision-making [12]

Don’t give up!

Changing the world is no small task! These tools will help you overcome some of the most common obstacles GSAs face, including raising money and handling resistance to your club.

• Fundraising for Your GSA [13]
• Dealing with Hostility & Opposition [14]

Legal Rights

If you started a GSA and feel your club is being treated differently or your administration has you jumping through hoops just to get it up and running, please visit these important sections. Student clubs in the U.S. do have rights. And if you are encountering harassment or discrimination personally, there are laws that protect you.

• Legal Resources [15]
• Know Your Right [16]s