In Star Trek, a “mind meld” is a kind of telepathic touch that enables the rapid sharing of knowledge and experience. Unfortunately for (at least most of) us, we are neither telepathic nor within touching distance of each other, so we have created a MELD Network* to better share tools, methods, practices and accomplishments across the state with each other.
The “League Mind MELD” column is a way to share even more information with members across the state.
The letters in MELD stand for Membership, Engagement, and Leadership Development. But what is MELD?
MELD is a virtual gathering where members from across the state can come together to learn about the League. "Possibility Thinking" guides MELD work. We aim to empower members by helping them develop the skills, knowledge and confidence they need to participate in League work, locally and statewide. It is a place for members who are not generally in leadership to come together and learn about other League programs and resources—including resources from the national, state and local League levels.
MELD Pods are small groups ("pods") that meet monthly for an hour. They are a time to ask questions, brainstorm, develop leadership skills and build confidence. They're also a place to discover new roles and possibilities within the League. MELD is a place to grow!
This fall, MELD will address:
- Nonpartisanship in this political climate
- How you can respond to local issues
- What to consider when our work is in the voter services/civics education realm
- What to consider when advocacy is our focus
To allow us to welcome members to the MELD Pods, please confirm your representative with Nancy Halvorson (by providing their name and contact information—which will ONLY be shared with their pod leader).
**A note to local League Presidents: It's a good idea to rotate MELD representatives. This allows more members to develop their own place in the League. Does your League have a system for MELD representatives to report back to your board and membership?
*In the context of the League, MELD actually has zero connection to Star Trek; it is an acronym for Membership, Engagement, Leadership, and Development. MELD pods meet each month to serve as platforms for sharing successes, addressing challenges, and exchanging ideas among local Leagues. Are you interested in learning more about MELD? Talk to your Local League Leadership about becoming involved in MELD.
