Getting Involved

There are several ways for organizations and individuals to become involved in the work of the Collaboration. Following the principles of open access and network building, there are no membership charges. The work of the members is on a voluntary basis and is dependent on the support of the organizations they represent and on project‐related grants. There are four categories of membership:

• Network Member – The name of the person is included on the mailing list of the Collaboration.
• Endorsing Member – The name of the person and/or his/her organization is made visible on the Internet site of the Collaboration and in other publications as a supporter of the work of the Collaboration. This may include permission to use the logo of the organization for publicity purposes.
• Action Group Member– The person participates in the work of an Action Group, which varies in form and scope, depending on the tasks performed and how the work of the Group is organized.
• Sponsoring Member – A sponsor is an individual or an organization who contributes financially to the work of the Collaboration.

The primary work of the Collaboration takes place in the Action Groups. Each Action Group is in charge of a particular topic and is coordinated by two of its members who must be from two different countries. Action Groups can be formed at any time by network members. By submitting a proposal to the Central Working Group a proposed Action Group can receive official recognition from the Collaboration and will be actively connected into the work of the other recognized Action Groups, which includes a seat on the Central Working Group. Each Action Group is in charge of setting its own goals and Action Plan and for developing a funding strategy, as needed.
 
Please also take a look at our ongoing projects.