No Money? No Problem! 10 Ways to GA on a Budget
Youth Registration to General Assembly: $205. Single room at the Hilton for 4 nights: almost $600. Cross-country flight: $500. Getting loads of financial help from the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) and other organizations: Priceless.There are lots of ways to get to GA and have a fabulous time without turning your pockets inside out . Here are the top 10.
10. Fundraise
Many folks in your community know that General Assembly is a transformational experience for youth. And if they don't already know, don't be afraid to tell them! From understanding your expenses, to creating an action plan and giving thanks to your donors, this handy Fundraising Manual will help you through the whole process. It's technically made for young adult service trips, but most of the information will apply to you too. Don't delay though, You'll want to make sure you're covered before registration costs go up on May 1st.9. Bring your Friends
If you think getting yourself to GA is expensive, think about getting your whole youth group to go! But there are some benefits if you all come together. If you drive, renting a van can cut down on fuel costs, if you fly sometimes you can get discounted group rates and you can cram more people into a hotel room (as long as it's one person per bed and youth under 18 don't room with anyone 18 or older unless they're related). Not only that, the Youth and Young Adult office is offering to pay the registration costs for every youth in your youth group! Learn more about Youth Group Grants and turn in your application before March 31st.8. Become a Youth Delegate
One of the reasons General Assembly is such a big deal is because that's where we conduct the business of our association. Delegates from all over the country gather to vote on the big issues that concern each of us. Many congregations support Youth Delegates by paying their way to GA. I'll let Kara explain how to become a Youth Delegate. [vimeo 116181220]7. Join the Faithify Street Team
FAITHIFY, Unitarian Universalism's crowdfunding site, will be back again with a bang at General Assembly. They need engaging, energetic people to help them spread the word about this innovative campaign. Job description: spend a few hours a day meeting awesome UUs and get them excited about all the fantastic projects happening in our movement. Here's the application. [vimeo 94507174 w=500 h=281]6. Volunteer
Tons of volunteers are needed to make General Assembly run. You could be an Usher tallying the number of people attending General Session or a Media Volunteer documenting GA from a youth p.o.v, be at the Information Desk telling people how awesome Portland is, or any number of other gigs. The General Assembly Planning Committee will pay your registration and give you a nifty tee-shirt, all you have to do is donate 12 hours of your time. Applications are open until March 31st.5. Tell Your Story
Create a 1-2 minute video sharing your unique experience with Unitarian Universalism and if the Board of Trustees chooses your video, they'll present it during their workshop at General Assembly and give you a scholarship to pay for your registration. Learn more and submit your video story by March 31 to youth@uua.org.;